Supporting our community - A Taste of Matarangi charitable causes

A Taste of Matarangi supports local community causes

As attendees of A Taste of Matarangi, festival goers play a crucial role in supporting the 2024 benefactors. Festival tickets, on the day auctions, fundraisers and raffles all contribute directly to the continued success of KSAR and Te Rerenga School.

The generosity of the festival attendees ensures that these community organisations can continue their vital work and educational initiatives, making a positive difference in the lives of individuals and families in the Coromandel community. 

Kuaotunu Land Search & Rescue (KSAR)

Kuaotunu Land Search & Rescue, affectionately known as KSAR, embodies the spirit of selflessness and dedication to community. Comprised of highly trained volunteers, KSAR ventures into the bush and remote areas at all hours of the day and night in search of lost individuals. 

In the past year alone, KSAR undertook numerous search and rescue operations, including overnight missions in the Moehau Ranges and multi-day endeavours in collaboration with neighbouring search and rescue groups. Their commitment to training and preparedness ensures that they are always ready to respond to emergencies, no matter the challenge.

A significant development in 2023 was the appointment of Dean Albiston as Chair, succeeding founding member, Steve Hart. With a wealth of existing knowledge and new leadership in place, KSAR is focused on enhancing their capabilities, including the acquisition of new GPS sets and VHF radios to support their operations effectively.

As a volunteer organisation, KSAR relies on the generosity of the community to sustain their operations. Donations go towards operational expenses, training, and equipment are vital in enabling them to continue their life-saving work across the Mercury Bay region.

Te Rerenga School

Nestled in Northern Mercury Bay, Te Rerenga School has a strong sense of community and values a strong learning and inclusive culture. Children attending the school come from the coastal communities of Coromandel Town, Whangapoua, Matarangi, Kuaotunu, Wharekaho, Whitianga and everywhere in-between! They are from diverse backgrounds, including farm kids, beach kids, and families who have embraced the coastal lifestyle, the school is a popular ‘country school’  in the region.

Our school families value our small, rural location. They choose to send their children here because we are a school that cares about children and a place where every child matters. We are a school that has a strong sense of community, a shared culture and vision where every child is recognised as an individual. 

-Te Rerenga School

With a growing enrolment and a commitment to holistic learning, Te Rerenga School prioritises the well-being and development of every child under its care. Their small, rural setting fosters a nurturing environment where students feel safe, valued, and supported in their educational journey.

Funds raised from A Taste of Matarangi, will continue to support the school in learning that extends beyond the classroom, with a strong emphasis on leveraging the rich local environment of beach, bush, and nature. Enabling the school to empower students to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Need more information?

For more information go to A Taste of Matarangi 2024 festival or go to the All About Whitianga, Event pages for general information about the festival or to the All About Whitianga Matarangi Explore page or to the All About Whitianga home page to see information about Matarangi and the wider Whitianga and Mercury Bay areas.