Diabetes NZ to open new community centre in Rotorua

A move from Pukaki St to Marguerita St heralds the beginning of community integration for Diabetes New Zealand.

Diabetes NZ Rotorua branch manager Karen Reed described the move as exciting.

"This is a new era for Diabetes NZ as the move coincides with the launch of the Rotorua Diabetes Centre," Reed said.

"Our new premises will allow us the room we need to offer much more to people with diabetes in Rotorua."

She said while knowing a larger space was needed, it was two things that gave the centre the push to relocate.

"The building where we were was sold to a developer and there was talk of possible demolition, and we were also subjected to a burglary in August where a laptop, projector and our donation box were taken.

"These three things combined made us feel it was time to move on."

Diabetes NZ will share the new space with the Stroke Foundation, a pairing that makes sense, according to Reed.

Diabetes affects almost 6000 people in the Lakes District Health Board area and one in four adults are thought to have pre-diabetes. Diabetes New Zealand provides information and support to all people and whānau affected by the condition.

"The Rotorua Community Diabetes Centre will provide a one-stop shop for information and support and will facilitate a number of different courses, seminars and workshops, which will be tailored to meet the needs of our various communities," Reed said.

"Community Champions for Diabetes NZ will help us engage and widen our reach."

The Rotorua Community Diabetes Centre will be opened officially by mayor Steve Chadwick tomorrow at noon. The opening will be followed by light refreshments and the opportunity for members of the public to find out more about the various types of diabetes and what services are available for people with diabetes living in and around Rotorua.

The opening precedes Diabetes Action Month, which is in November. World Diabetes Day is on November 14.

"We will be hosting a whānau day (afternoon) on the Lakefront in conjunction with Sport BOP and with the support of Rotorua Lions Groups, and a number of other organisations," Reed said.

"This will coincide with our annual Teddy Bear's Picnic and there will be a variety of activities for all the family, plus some awesome spot prizes."