Preparedness works best when it works for everyone – that’s the driving message behind Whakatāne’s first Emergency Services Open Day.

The first-of-its-kind event is on this weekend at Whakatane High School and champions accessibility and inclusion in emergency preparedness.

Whakatāne District Council, in partnership with local emergency services and community groups, will is hosting the family-friendly event, which is designed to bring together emergency responders, support organisations, and the public in a fun, educational, and inclusive way.

“The event will take place from 10am - 2pm and will shine a spotlight on the disability and accessibility community, recognising their vital role in emergency preparedness,” said John Eruera, the council’s emergency management officer.

Hato Hone St John paramedic and area operations manager Lindsay Sattler said everyone had a part to play in keeping the district safe.

The Emergency Services Open Day will feature:

• Live demonstrations and interactive displays from emergency services
• Accessibility and disability-focused stalls
• Food trucks
• MC-led stage activities, including DJ No Hands, and Circability
• An event passport competition to encourage engagement
• Opportunities to connect with local emergency responders and community groups

“This event is about building understanding, confidence, and collaboration, and making sure our disability and accessibility communities are front and centre in our emergency planning,” said Naomi Freeman, information services co-ordinator at the Disabilities Resource Centre Trust.

Entry is free, with a gold coin koha supporting Hospice Eastern Bay of Plenty.

The event is supported by a wide range of partners, including Disabilities Resource Centre Trust, NZ Police, Fire and Emergency New Zealand, Hato Hone St John, Neighbourhood Support, Media Bay of Plenty, Whakatāne District Council, Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council, Emergency Management Bay of Plenty, and community groups.