Waihī Beach Accessible Changeroom Wins Collaboration Award

LiveWell Waihī Beach and Waihī Beach Lifeguard Services have taken out the Best Collaboration Award at the 2026 Western Bay Community Awards, recognised for their joint effort to make Waihī Beach the most accessible beach in Aotearoa. The two organisations have been working side by side to raise funds and build a fully accessible changing room with specialist equipment — a first for any New Zealand beach within 50 metres of the shoreline.

The project grew from a successful fundraising drive that first delivered beach mats and wheelchairs. Community coordinator Cindy Clare said the award reflected the organisations' shared commitment to inclusion — ensuring people who use wheelchairs or have mobility challenges can enjoy a full beach experience with independence and dignity. The new space also strengthens the surf lifeguard club's first aid set-up for managing serious incidents.

Waihī Beach resident Dave MacCalman noted the project came together through a wide range of contributors, from lifeguard club management and a physio with disability experience, to tradespeople who donated their services. TECT Chair Mark Arundel said the awards celebrated those who quietly and consistently stepped up for their communities — and that this year's winners demonstrated what becomes possible when passion, generosity, and commitment come together.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).