For immediate release: Friday 31 October 2025
That's the driving message behind the inaugural Emergency Services Open Day, a first-of-its-kind event championing accessibility and inclusion in emergency preparedness.
Whakatāne District Council, in partnership with local emergency services and community groups, will host a hands-on Emergency Services Open Day. This family-friendly event is designed to bring together emergency responders, support organisations, and the public in a fun, educational, and inclusive way.
“The event will take place from 10am - 3pm on Saturday 8 November 2025 at Whakatāne High School, and will shine a spotlight on the disability and accessibility community, recognising their vital role in emergency preparedness,” says John Eruera, Emergency Management Officer at Whakatāne District Council.
Lindsay Sattler, Paramedic & Area Operations Manager, Hato Hone St John adds “everyone has a part to play in keeping our district safe.”
The Emergency Services Open Day will feature:
• Live demonstrations and interactive displays from emergency services
• Accessibility and disability-focused stalls
• Food trucks
• MC-led stage activities, including DJ No Hands, and Circability
• An event passport competition to encourage engagement
• Opportunities to connect with local emergency responders and community groups
“This event is about building understanding, confidence, and collaboration, and making sure our disability and accessibility communities are front and centre in our emergency planning,” says Naomi Freeman, Information Services Co-Ordinator, Disabilities Resource Centre Trust.
Entry is free, with a gold coin koha supporting Hospice Eastern Bay of Plenty.
The event is supported by a wide range of partners, including Disabilities Resource Centre Trust, NZ Police, Fire and Emergency New Zealand, Hato Hone St John, Neighbourhood Support, Media Bay of Plenty, Whakatāne District Council, Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council, Emergency Management Bay of Plenty, and community groups.
For more information, visit:
www.whakatane.com/events/emergency-services-open-day-featuring-disability-and-community-support-services