South Wairarapa Rotary
working in the community
I was astonished to see just how much work the club is involved in. We’d have to be one of the most active service clubs in the country!
KEVIN, new member
OUR programmes and collaborations
Collaborations with environment groups
South Wairarapa Rotary has a decades-long tradition of – not only providing funds for – but turning up in person at local environmental restoration or improvement projects; from the Mangatete and Wairio Wetland restoration projects, to Morrison’s Bush, Tate’s Reserve, and the Woodside Cycle Trail. We’re also actively involved in constructing and distributing rat traps in collaboration with predator free groups.
Support for community initiatives
If its happening in one of our local communities, we’re probably involved somehow. You’ll find Rotary members running beside the fire engines at the annual Foodbank drive, reuniting lost children with their whanau at Greytown’s mid-winter festival, marshalling or directing crowds at local events, and generally pitching in where ever there’s a need in our communities. We have also recently taken on the organisation of the Greytown Santa Parade.
International projects
South Wairarapa Rotary provides vital funds for disaster relief and medical aid projects in the South Pacific, with a focus on supporting communities affected by natural disaster, civil unrest, famine, or access to medical care. We currently sponsor Shelter Box, Emergency Response Kit, Interplast, the Fred Hollows foundation and ROMAC (Rotary Oceania Medical Aid for Children), and are actively engaged in supporting the work of Shelter Box.
RYPEN Youth Programme of Enrichment
RYPEN camp is a fun, residential weekend where youth age 15 to 17 years have the chance to listen to inspirational guest speakers and participate in outdoor activities designed to build self-worth. RYPEN 2026 will take place in September. Nominations open May 2026.
national science & technology forum
The Rotary National Science & Technology Forum is a 14 day January residential programme offering Year 12 students the opportunity to experience university life and explore potential study and career paths in science, mathematics, and technology. Applications for the 2026 forum have now closed.
innovative young minds residential programme (IYM)
IYM is a week-long residential programme designed to inspire Year 11 and 12 female students from the lower North Island into the science, technology, innovation and engineering sector. Apply now for the 2026 programme at https://www.iym.org.nz/iym-residential
Rotary Books for new entrants
Every new entrant at a South Wairarapa school receives a book donated to the school by the South Wairarapa Rotary Club. If you’re a South Wairarapa School and haven’t heard from us by the end of November, get in touch .
RYDA Road safety Awareness
Every year groups of students from Kuranui College receive educational materials and attend a one day Road Safety Awareness workshop funded and facilitated by South Wairarapa Rotary in partnership with Road Safety Education Limited (RSE).
RYLA Youth leadership development
RYLA is a five day high energy residential programme designed to develop 18 to 24 year old future leaders. South Wairarapa supports one young person to attend this programme annually.