Wharekaka Auxiliary – working for the community

Anne Parkinson and Lynne Abbott at the TK Market.

An outstanding feature of Wharekaka Aged Care Community, is how it is supported by the Wharekaka Auxiliary, a group of local women who raise funds and offer social support to residents. 

Money raised from the stall of beautifully presented goodies at Martinborough Community Market over Labour Weekend , (pictured) for instance, pays for extras that make residents lives more comfortable. More complex projects like The Wharekaka Cookbook and last year’s Martinborough House and Garden Tour have raised over $85,000 between them – all put to good use. 

But it’s not all about fundraising. Auxiliary Chair, Carolyn Thompson says sitting down to a cup of tea and a chat with Wharekaka residents is equally important. “The residents really appreciate seeing new faces, and you learn about their lives – some have had really big, interesting lives. I’ve found that I get as much out of that contact as they do.”

As a newcomer to Martinborough, Carolyn found joining the Auxiliary was a good way to meet people. Although various fundraising projects do require work “we do things that we have enjoyed doing, and there is no pressure to be there at every meeting. We all do what we can.” 

Di Martin, who joined the Auxiliary in 1977 and is still a very active member, says that the two women who set it up, Joyce Ussher and Connie Taylor,  would be thrilled to see the Auxiliary still going strong.  “We have always had a great committee of caring people who are prepared to contribute and enjoy working together. People often stay in the Auxiliary a long time,” says Di. Heather Wall, who recently passed away and is fondly remembered, was also a founding member of the Auxiliary. 

Times have changed over the years. Di remembers when Wharekaka was first established as a day centre, the Auxiliary was very hands on – sewing curtains, gardening, painting, and cooking. At one point, as Wharekaka developed into a rest home, members even helped out on the night shift. 

This year’s final fundraiser for Wharekaka is at the TK Market on Sunday 6 December. Look out for the green Wharekaka banner, and pick up some delicious homemade treats. If you are interested in joining the Auxiliary, please contact Carolyn Thompson, 306 9659, or Lesley Daly (Secretary) 306 6371 for details.