New Zealand’s only living Victoria Cross recipient, Willie Apiata VC, will visit the Bay of Plenty next month to speak at two rural community wellbeing events.

Hosted by the Bay of Plenty Rural Support Trust, the events – titled “I’m good… are you?” – aim to create space for open conversations around resilience, mental health, leadership and staying connected through challenging times.

The first event will be held on July 1, at 6pm at the Awakeri Events Centre on State Highway 30 in Whakatāne.

The second will take place on July 2, at 6pm at the Citizens RSA Club in Te Puke.

Tickets are available via the Rural Support Trust website.

Apiata, who was awarded the Victoria Cross for bravery under fire during service in Afghanistan, has strong ties to the Eastern Bay of Plenty. Although born in Māngakino, he grew up in Te Kaha and attended school along the coast.

He is widely regarded as one of the region’s own and has close connections to Te Whānau-ā-Apanui. His Victoria Cross was formally celebrated at Tukaki Marae in Te Kaha following his return to New Zealand.

Now living in the Bay of Plenty, Apiata shares messages centred on resilience, looking after others and navigating difficult times – values that organisers say strongly resonate with rural communities.

Bay of Plenty Rural Support Trust coordinator Jodie Craig said his visit is an opportunity locals should not miss.

“We’re really proud to be welcoming someone with such strong Eastern Bay connections to share his story with our rural communities and whānau,” Craig said.

The events will be delivered in an interview-style format, allowing Apiata to speak candidly about his experiences, the challenges he has faced and the tools he uses to maintain his own wellbeing.

Trust chairman Miles Mander said the events offer a rare chance to hear from someone whose story carries significant mana.

“To have Willie Apiata VC here in the Bay of Plenty, speaking directly to our rural communities, is a pretty special opportunity.

“His story is one of courage, humility and service, but it is also about connection, looking after the people around you and recognising that no one gets through the hard times alone.”

Mander said while the primary sector is currently in a largely positive position, many farmers, growers and rural families continue to face pressures, including weather events, financial strain, isolation and heavy workloads.

“Rural people are incredibly resilient, but that does not mean they should carry everything by themselves.

“Sometimes the most important thing we can do is check in properly – not just ask once and move on, but ask again and stay connected.”

Community partners include New Zealand Young Farmers and Farmstrong.

The Bay of Plenty Rural Support Trust is part of a national network providing free and confidential support to farmers, growers and rural communities.

The free events are recommended for people aged 16 years and over and will include time for informal conversations before and after the main session.