Ranui Community Centre

Welcome to Ranui Community Centre, located at 474 Swanson Road in Auckland, New Zealand. Established in 1974 by a group of dedicated individuals, the Ranui Community Centre has been a vital point of interest for the local community for over four decades.

Initially, the center operated as a meeting place and offered a few classes, all funded through fundraising efforts. The sense of ownership and community spirit within Ranui was strong, leading to the official incorporation of the Ranui Community Centre as a society in 1978, subject to the legal structures associated with such organizations.

In 1988, as part of its strategic plan, the Waitakere City Council assumed central control of the Ranui Community Centre. This decision resulted in the employment of a coordinator, whose wages were funded through the council's annual plan. The coordinator became accountable to the management committee.

In 1994, the original center at 4 Ranui Station Rd was handed over to the Cook Island Community, and a larger building, the old Post Office building from Te Atatu South, was relocated to the current site at 474 Swanson Rd. The center also saw the addition of a library, initially housed in a container in the car park, but later expanded into a dedicated space in 2000.

Over the years, it became evident that the Ranui Community Centre required additional funding to sustain its operations. In response, the idea of opening a café within the center was born. In 2008, The Tea Tree café was established in the center's kitchen and quickly gained popularity among the community.

In October 2014, the new Ranui Library was opened, allowing the Ranui Community Centre to utilize the space previously occupied by the library. Recognizing the need for a larger and more functional building, a joint initiative between Auckland Council and the Ranui Community Centre was undertaken to remodel and refurbish the center.

After a period of deconstruction and reconstruction, the center reopened in February 2016 and the café was renamed Café Korero. With a dedicated team, including a chef and barista, Café Korero now operates six days a week, serving the local community with delicious food and beverages.

In 2019/2020, the Ranui Community Centre underwent a restructuring process to adapt to its rapid growth and ensure efficient management. The organization now has separate roles for finance and coordination, allowing for better oversight of the center's operations.

As of July 18th, 2020, Café Korero operates five days a week and continues to employ local staff. The center aims to foster closer collaboration between the café and the community garden, welcoming volunteers to participate in gardening activities.

Looking towards the future, the Ranui Community Centre envisions the establishment of a Community Shed/Maker's space alongside the Community Gardens in Marinich Drive. This space will provide opportunities for learning and skill development, promoting a happy and sustainable lifestyle within the Ranui community.

Come and be a part of the Ranui Community Centre, where learning, growth, and community thrive.