Keeping up with senior services
Age Concern Taupō chairwoman Val Hoogerbrugge (second from right) enjoys the Seniors’ Expo in 2025. Photos: Heather Mickleson
The Seniors' Expo returns to the Great Lake Centre on March 18, bringing together 55 organisations and services relevant to older members of the Taupō community.
Now in its eighth year, the expo attracts nearly 1,000 people says Val Hoogerbrugge, chairwoman of Age Concern.
"We've got a full house; there's 55 different groups coming along and that's capacity really in the hall.”
The expo is a one-stop information hub where older people can discover available services and opportunities before they need them urgently.
"Often it's left too late and then they're in a bit of a quandary. People all of a sudden find themselves in a crisis or semi-crisis situation and then it's oh, my gosh."
Val developed the concept while working with the Office of Seniors, where she regularly travelled to Wellington for projects involving older people.
The event showcases essential services and social opportunities available to older residents throughout the Taupō district.
Health organisations feature prominently, with the Stroke Foundation, Heart Foundation and Mole Map on hand to provide free health checks including blood pressure monitoring and mole mapping services.
St John Ambulance provides information about its community initiatives for older residents.
Beyond health services, the expo highlights social connection opportunities, with various clubs and organisations present.
Val says the social side of things can be a significant challenge for older people.
"It's quite a drive now, keeping people connected."
The event provides a dedicated space where attendees can sit, enjoy free tea and coffee, and connect with others whilst exploring the various exhibitor stands.
"They like to have a space where they can sit down and catch up with one another and chat and just spend time with other people."
Val also serves on the board of Waiora Trust, which operates the social service hub where many of the organisations at the Expo are based.
"Taupō is very fortunate to have that hub. Not many towns have a social service hub.”
The expo addresses the common challenge of people not knowing what services exist until they face difficulties.
"You don't know what you don't know.”
The event allows attendees to gather information about services they might need in future, from healthcare support to social activities and community programmes.
Admission to the expo is free, ensures accessibility for all older residents seeking information about available services and opportunities in their community.
The expo's tradition is to provide information in a welcoming, social environment where people can explore options at their own pace and connect with others in similar circumstances.
It is also an opportunity for those who have previously attended to stay informed about evolving services and the community resources available.