The Ōtaki Playgroup based at Haruātai Park is to be wound up because of a lack of interest.

A committee meeting attended by only Gemma Rutherford and Rose McLardy on November 25 decided to disband the group, which provides a safe play space for Ōtaki children and their parents. The house is often rented out for children’s parties.

Treasurer Rose McLardy says the possibility of a last-minute reprieve is unlikely.

 “If I’m to be honest, I don’t know there would be any point,” she told Ōtaki Today. “Playgroup has struggled with dwindling membership and lack of community support for a number of years and this closure has been on the cards for the last three years.

“Even with previous publicity, a revamp inside, all of the extra toys and baby area that was donated, we have not been able to get the numbers in to make it sustainable.”

The house was moved to the Haruātai site, which is owned by Kāpiti Coast District Council, about 30 years ago.. The group has a lease arrangement with the council, and receives some Ministry of Education funding.

Formal notice has been given to KCDC and MoE to close the group down.  It will cease to exist after January 26.

Toys provided by the ministry will be returned. Others will be offered to the Ōtaki Toy Library, and any left over will be offered for sale to the community.  The proceeds will go to the Foodbank.

All money in the playgroup account after bills are paid will go to MoE.