Bay of Plenty Community services
There's a good range of community and government support services available in the Bay of Plenty.
Looking for general community services information?
Like Kiwis generally, people in the Bay of Plenty are good at taking the initiative. So, if a community service isn’t currently available, often someone will start one.
Public/Government services
Local Councils
For many local services, you can check or inquire with the local council nearest you.
Local councils in the Bay of Plenty | Department of Internal Affairs
Tax department
You can contact Inland Revenue (IR) online, by phone or in person at several locations around the Bay of Plenty region.
For a personal appointment contact IR first by phone. Free interpreters are available for phone calls - when your call is answered, say "Language Line", and what language you require.
Everyone moving to New Zealand permanently will need a tax number, called an IRD number. This is a 8-9 digit code that is unique to you. Find out more on the IR website.
NZ Post
To find your nearest postshop or Kiwibank use this site. You can also find other information about postal services here
Family services
Use this directory to locate and contact support in the Bay of Plenty for services relating to addiction, basic needs, disaster recovery, education and training, employment, ethnic services, family violence, health, mentors, legal and civil services, mental health, parenting and caregiving, special needs and disability, youth services and ISO capability.
Family Services Bay of Plenty | Family Services directory
OUTLine NZ
OUTLineNZ is a free, nationwide specialist helpline and counselling service offering support for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) people and for people questioning their gender identity/sexual orientation. It is staffed by trained volunteers, and qualified counsellors also offer affordable face to face counselling at OUTLineNZ’s Auckland office or via skype.
Phone for free 0800 688 5463
Community networks
Citizens Advice Bureau has lists of community groups for Tauranga, and the wider region.
Community groups Tauranga | Citizens Advice Bureau
Rotorua has many voluntary organisations and community services. Go to the council site for more details.
Community facilities | Rotorua Lakes Council
Resident and Ratepayer Organisations
Resident and Ratepayer Organisations are neighbourhood groups who focus on local issues, and approach local councils about solutions.
Rotorua Resident and Ratepayer Organisations
New Zealand Newcomers Network
The New Zealand Newcomers Network is a network of groups throughout New Zealand welcoming newcomers and offering range of fun social events and activities. The events are a great way to meet new people, find out about local activities, and get connected with your local community. Anyone can join – and membership is free.
Bay of Plenty | Newcomers Network
Safety
Neighbourhood support contacts
Neighbourhood Support aims to make our homes and communities safer and more caring places in which to live.
Neighbourhood Support Groups work together and with the Police and other community organisations to reduce crime, improve safety and prepare for emergencies and natural disasters. Check this website for someone to talk to about Neighbourhood Support in your area.
New Zealand Police advice for new arrivals
On this site you will find information about the Police and crime prevention advice for newcomers in 12 different languages.
Police contacts
Use this site to find out where your nearest police station is and the name of the closest Pacific and ethnic liaison officer for the Bay of Plenty
Labour Inspectorate - migrant exploitation
Labour inspectors work with employers and employees to make sure that employment laws are applied properly in workplaces.
If you think that you have not been treated fairly at work, you can contact Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) Labour inspectors on 0800 20 90 20.
Women's refuge
If you are a woman and need information or help from Women's Refuge use this site to find out who you can call
Shakti offers a crisis call number (0800SHAKTI) and safe houses around the country for migrant and refugee women who are experiencing domestic violence.
Shakti is a national not-for-profit community organisation specialising in the area of women’s development, domestic/ family violence intervention, prevention and awareness. They provide culturally competent support services for women, children and families of Asian, African and Middle Eastern origin.
Civil defence emergency information
Check for important local information about what to do in an emergency from the Civil defence site nearest you.
The New Zealand Government created the Get Ready, Get Thru website with information about what to do in many types emergency.
Fire service
Find out about your local fire service by using this site
Find a fire station | NZ Fire Service
Transport
The Bay of Plenty regional council has a regional public transport page which includes links to the key transport options available
Bay of Plenty Public Transport | Bay of Plenty Regional Council
Baybus
The public bus services in Tauranga and Rotorua are run by Bay Bus. Check their site for routes, timetables and fares
Cycling
Each of the main councils has a page about the dedicated cycle ways in their local area.
Tauranga cycling | Tauranga City Council
Rotorua cycleways | Rotorua Lakes Council
Parking
See these pages for information about the parking rules in each area.