Gate Pa residents got to know their neighbours better on Saturday at a Neighbours Day Aotearoa event held in Anzac Park.

The event was organised by local police in partnership with Tauranga City Council's Community Development team, and received funding from the Community Development Match Fund.

The community coming together in Gate Pa. Photos: Supplied.

Community Development Committee Chair Steve Morris says getting to know your neighbours was often something people thought about but never quite got round to doing.

'It was great to see Gate Pa residents really getting into the spirit of Neighbours Day Aotearoa and taking the opportunity to not only have fun, but create those connections that build stronger, safer and more resilient communities.

'That's what the Community Development Match Fund is all about, and I'm delighted that the day was such a success.”

The event was also a chance for residents to talk to Tauranga City Council staff about what they would like to see in Anzac Park.

'Anzac Park is a local reserve for local people, so it was a great chance for the Gate Pa community to share their ideas about what they want for the area, whether it be upgraded play equipment, sports posts, or more trees and benches,” says Steve.

Neighbours Day Aotearoa is an annual celebration of neighbourliness that aims to turn every community into a fun, friendly and safe place to live.

The Anzac Park event was one of four Neighbours Day Aotearoa events held around Tauranga that received Community Development Match Fund grants. The other events were held in Greerton, Matua and Papamoa.

For more information on Neighbours Day Aotearoa, visit www.neighboursday.org.nz