The Blue Moon Four Square has changed hands this week, following 47 years of being run by owners Kevin and Glenys Hennessy.

The new owners are Whakatāne couple, Liam Gordon, 27, and Anoushka Howard, 26.

In a farewell message, Mr Hennessy said the end of an era had finally come.

“Blue Moon has been at the centre of our lives, through ups and downs, the birth of our children and grandchildren. We’ve seen New Zaland denomination changes, major economic shifts and natural disasters.

“The landscape of business has changed much for us and it’s time to hand over the reins to Anoushka and Liam, who have the youth and energy to take the business forward.

“We thank our loyal customers, staff and community for being with us over the past 47 years.

“We have seen up to five generations pass through our doors. We wondered how best to celebrate and thank you customers. Given how important community is to us we have decided to make donations to a few local charities.

“Thank you to those who have worked and shopped with us throughout the years.

“Your unwavering support really is why we love Ōpōtiki and this amazing community so much.

“We are nervous but excited about this next chapter of our lives. We really couldn’t have done it without you, Ōpōtiki.”

Mr Gordon and Miss Howard grew up in Whakatāne and initially trained at Ohope Four Square. They moved to Palmerston North to continue their training, working there in a New World and Four Square.

“There are a lot of changes we would like to make, a lot of exciting things happening, though I won’t share too much now,” Miss Howard said.

“We want to hear what people want from their store and what we can do to support and service them.” She said the Eastern Bay was home to them and provided a very warm and welcoming community.

“We’re lucky to be home, with an amazing staff and a community like Ōpōtiki.”