As Christmas lights begin to twinkle and our local businesses transform their spaces into a Christmas wonderland, it can only mean one thing: it’s time for one of Tawa’s most enchanting holiday traditions—The Christmas Window Display Competition! This celebration of creativity, community, and holiday spirit brings our suburb to life, illuminating shop windows with dazzling displays that capture the joy and warmth of the season. But what goes into creating this beloved tradition year after year? Let’s take a peek behind the scenes to uncover what makes Tawa’s Christmas Window Display Competition truly magical. In the heart of Tawa lies a community bursting with life and history. Here, our cherished long-time residents, especially our beloved senior citizens, stand as pillars of wisdom and witness to the ever-evolving landscape of our suburb. And when the festive season arrives, our Christmas Window Display competition ignites a spark of joy that lights up the streets, drawing grandparents and their grandchildren together. Hand in hand, they wander the charming lanes of Tawa, exploring shops, savoring treats, and making unforgettable moments of their lives. It’s a magical sight – young couples sharing their first holiday date, families creating cherished traditions, and partners celebrating decades of love. All are united by the twinkling lights, radiant smiles, and hearts brimming with warmth and affection. The Christmas Window Display Competition is more than just an event; it’s the heartbeat of our community during the holiday season. It fills our streets with wonder and excitement, bringing people together in a shared celebration of creativity and joy. Local businesses pour their hearts into crafting displays that dazzle the eyes and tell meaningful stories. Take Nada Bakery, for example. Their team, led by a daughter and her daughter-in-law, worked together to bake an enchanting cookie display – a carriage, reindeers, and a Christmas tree adorned with green frosting. Their window didn’t just look magical; it practically invited you to taste the holiday cheer. (I’ll admit, I could almost smell the freshly baked cookies through the glass. Haha!) This is the magic of Tawa’s Christmas Window Display Competition – a celebration of creativity, connection, and the true spirit of the season. A Community-Driven Christmas Celebration For the third festive season, Tawa’s local businesses have collaborated to create enchanting window displays, each uniquely capturing the magic of Christmas. The competition's brief is simple: use your products or a theme that aligns with your trade. This simplicity fosters creativity, allowing business owners to create festive, personal displays. It's more than a competition—it's an expression of their community connection and Christmas spirit. Every snowflake, twinkling light, and centerpiece tells a story of dedication and love. From late-night crafting to brainstorming with family and staff, these displays are a labor of love. Every window reflects shared joy, community connections, and the power of coming together to celebrate the season of giving. The manager of the Tawa Business Group, Bernadette Pallister, says, " this is an opportunity to showcase the amazing businesses we have here in Tawa, which extends much further than our retailers and includes, amongst others, gyms, hairdressers, engineering and building companies." How to win? The Christmas Window Display Competition adds a festive twist to this event. As you follow the trail through Tawa, you’re invited to search for hidden letters in the 19 participating windows, which combine to spell out a special Christmas message. And there’s more—by voting for your favourite window display, you could be in with a chance to win a $500 voucher from New World Tawa or one of many $100 vouchers from some of our best-loved Tawa-based businesses! Brochure for Christmas Window Display 2024 Brochure for Christmas Window Display 2024 These flyers are available in over 30 different outlets in Tawa, including all participating businesses. It can even be downloaded from our Event Page , where you can also read up on the Terms and Conditions. The main one being one person, one vote so please don't try submitting extra votes. Completed entry forms can be posted in one of our special Santa post boxes situated at the Tawa Community Centre, Tawa Mervyn Kemp Library, or at the Tawa Business Group offices at 220B Main Road, Tawa. Entries dropped off with the Tawa Business Group will be offered a bonus chocolate. Voting booth for Christmas Window Display 2024 If you can't get to one of our post boxes, you can fill in the form online here or take a photo of it and email it to info@tawabusiness.co.nz The Friendly (and Festive) Competition! While the holiday spirit takes center stage in the Christmas Window Display Competition, a touch of friendly rivalry brings an extra layer of excitement. Each business brings its A-game, blending creativity with a sprinkle of festive magic to stand out. But in true Christmas fashion, the competition isn’t just about the displays—it’s also about delighting visitors with unexpected surprises. Take Lowe & Co, for example. Alongside their beautifully adorned tree, they’ve added a playful twist: a festively decorated lolly bin for visitors to enjoy. It’s small gestures like these that make exploring Tawa during the holidays so special, offering moments of joy and surprise to everyone who stops by. This friendly competition isn’t just about winning; it’s about celebrating the spirit of giving and togetherness. Each business, in its own way, contributes to the magic that lights up Tawa, making every corner of our town a place to explore, connect, and celebrate the season. Tawa’s Community Spirit Shines Through Beyond the dazzling displays and festive cheer, the Christmas Window Display Competition serves a greater purpose: uplifting our local economy and strengthening community bonds. As shoppers and visitors wander through the vibrant streets of Tawa, they’re not just enjoying the beauty of the season—they’re rediscovering the heart of our suburb. Each purchase, every smile exchanged, and all the moments shared contribute to making Tawa a hub of connection and celebration. Over the years, this competition has grown to become more than just an event; it’s now a cornerstone of Tawa’s identity. Drawing visitors from across Wellington and beyond, it shines a light on our community’s creativity, hospitality, and charm, showcasing Tawa as a place where tradition and innovation beautifully intertwine. Spreading Holiday Cheer, One Window at a Time As the countdown to Christmas begins, there’s no better way to soak in the holiday spirit than by exploring Tawa’s magical displays. Picture this: a lunchtime stroll with workmates, a fun-filled family outing with the kids, or an evening adventure with friends, discovering hidden gems and feeling the warmth of the season. While admiring the creative displays, you’ll also find plenty of reasons to linger in Tawa’s shops. Many local businesses are spreading the holiday cheer with great discounts and special deals, making it the perfect time to tick off your Christmas shopping list. From unique gifts to festive treats, there’s something for everyone—and every purchase supports the small businesses that bring so much vibrancy to our community. The Christmas Window Display Competition isn’t just about lights and decorations—it’s a celebration of everything that makes Tawa special. It’s a reminder that the spirit of Christmas lives in every smile, every shared laugh, and every act of kindness that fills our little suburb. So, grab your map, follow the trail, and let the festive magic of Tawa’s Christmas Window Display Competition guide you through a holiday experience that will leave your heart full and your spirits high. And don’t forget to drop off your completed voting form to have your say in this joyful celebration of creativity and community—and maybe snag some amazing deals while you’re at it! Just remember to drop off your completed form before midnight on Sunday 15 December to be in with a chance to win. Winners of 2024 The Christmas Window Display Competition 2024 brought a festive glow to Tawa, and we’re thrilled to celebrate our winners: 1st Place: Cutting Galore A stunning mannequin Christmas tree that dazzled us all with its elegance and festive flair. JUST WOW!! Many, many CONGRATULATIONS to the amazing team at Cutting Galore. Team's photo of Cutting Galore receiving their winner's certificate from our BID Manager 2nd Place: Gorgeous Goose Cakes Winning hearts again this year, their charming window was a perfect mix of sweetness and holiday magic, and their freshly made cupcakes are to die for. Gorgeous Goose Cakes and family 3rd Place: Gift Shack Decor & Giftware Another third-time win, showcasing their consistent creativity and love for the season! New location but the same amazing service and products. Gift Shack A huge thank you to all the businesses that participated and to everyone who voted. Your support brings our community together and makes Tawa shine even brighter! Some Glimpses from Previous Year's Winners The winners of 2022 and 2023 showcased the vibrant talent and community spirit of Tawa. In 2022, Gorgeous Goose Cakes , Salvation Army Tawa , Gift Shack , and KD One with Kareen earned accolades for their exceptional contributions. The following year, Embrace Design, Gift Shack, and Gorgeous Goose Cakes continued the tradition of excellence, with Gift Shack and Gorgeous Goose Cakes securing wins two years in a row, highlighting their enduring impact and popularity within the community.

As the flowers bloom and the days grow warmer, Tawa comes alive with excitement for one of its most cherished annual events: Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa . What began as a local market day has evolved over the years into a lively celebration that brings the community together through art, culture, and good times. So, what can you expect on Saturday, 19 October? Let’s dive into the history, the highlights, and why you won’t want to miss it! How it all started? Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa had its humble beginnings in the year 2000, initiated by a small group of dedicated local business owners. Their goal was simple but meaningful: to create an event where the Tawa community could come together, support local clubs and businesses, and connect with one another in the heart of the suburb. Over the years, we have observed the evolution of this event. We have seen individuals from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds coming together to celebrate this event every year. Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa also demonstrates the influence of community-driven initiatives and the profound impact they can have on fostering a sense of belonging and connection. Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa has become part of Tawa's identity - symbolising unity and strength in the face of adversity. In 2020, as Covid-19 restrictions eased and the event was able to take place, we witnessed a large turnout of people who were enthusiastic about reconnecting, enjoying themselves, and embracing all that Tawa has to offer. As the festival continues to grow in popularity, it serves as a platform for local artists, businesses, and organisations to showcase their talents and contributions. The amazing vibe of the event shows how tight-knit the community is, bringing everyone together and making it feel like one big family, even outside of the festival itself. How the Event has Grown? Since its early days, Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa has grown both in size and scope. In 2016, the Tawa Ratepayers and Progressive Association transformed into Vibrant Tawa, also known as Tawa Residents Association, where a small sub-committee is the driving force behind organising this event. Key changes since then have included closing off part of Main Road, adding entertainment stages, inviting food trucks, and expanding the number of stalls. The event boasts three entertainment stages, over 150 stalls, and more than 20 food trucks, along with free activities and entertainment for children, ensuring something for everyone. Despite its growth, one thing has remained constant: Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa is a community event at its core, showcasing local talent, businesses, and groups that make Tawa a truly special place to live. Mexted Motor Spring into Tawa doesn't just attract locals from Tawa, it has also captivated hearts far and wide and transcends its suburban boundaries. In 2023, the event successfully drew over 9000 attendees from all the neighbouring suburbs, including Porirua, Aotea, Whitby, Churton Park, Johnsonville, Newlands, and Khandallah. Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa has now become the regional 'must do' event like 'Cupa Dupa' and the 'Newtown Festival'. Free Activities for kids? Music to my ears!! Yes, you heard it right, all kids' activities are absolutely free. If there’s one thing to be proud of, it’s that this festival remains a family-friendly and community-focused celebration. The organisers have put a great emphasis on creating an inclusive environment where families can come together and enjoy a day filled with fun and excitement. Stacey Richardson - one of the key event organisers says, "We know how expensive it can be for families at events like these, so all children's activities are free. That's why it's such a great day out - kids can enjoy everything without their parents feeling the pressure to spend." The event has also adopted an eco-friendly approach. Last year, 94% of waste was diverted from landfill, and this year’s goal is to reduce waste generation further. Attendees are encouraged to bring reusable cups, water bottles, and food containers to reduce their environmental footprint. After all, small actions can make a big difference. Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa 2024 - Calling All Volunteers! A lot of hard work goes into planning an event of this scale, and Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa is no exception. A small team of eight people works tirelessly throughout the year to make it happen, but on the day itself, a volunteer army of 50 is needed to assist with set-up and pack-down, with 20 core team members on duty from the early hours of the morning until evening. Would you like to help? The organisers are still looking for volunteers, particularly between 6-10 am  and 3-6 pm. If you’d like to get involved, email volunteers@springintotawa.nz for more information, or sign up through our Job Vacancy page here . An Event for the People of Tawa For the organisers, what makes Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa so special is seeing people connect with one another. "In a world where we’re all so busy, it’s nice to see people stop, chat, and catch up with friends they haven’t seen in a while," Stacey says. "That’s what makes all the hard work worthwhile." Whether you’re enjoying live music, sampling delicious food, or exploring the many stalls, Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa offers a rare opportunity to pause and reconnect with the community. Sponsors Who Make It Possible Of course, an event like this wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of sponsors. Mexted Motors has been the naming sponsor since 2023, providing critical funding to keep this not-for-profit event running. Long-time supporters like Tamsin Davidson One Agency Real Estate, The Borough, Streetwise Coffee Tawa, and many others have also played a key role in helping the festival grow and thrive. Moreover, Mexted Motors will present its assortment of vintage cars for guests to explore in person. Mexted Motors will display close to 50 iconic and unique vehicles from Mitsubishi's extensive past. This is a great chance to appreciate classic automobiles and take part in the lively Spring Into Tawa festival. Tawa is Open for Business Too Wait, there's more! The Tawa Business Group fully supports this event and many of our businesses, some of which have been involved since those early days, are keen to showcase their amazing selection of wares on the day. Paisley Gift Store and Tawa Books and Post will be offering one-day-only sale specials, Skye Candle and Body Care are having a 15% off sale and Little Annie Pop-in Portrait are offering their Spring mini portrait specials. In addition to the fabulous food trucks available, many of our finest eateries will be open with Gorgeous Goose Cakes , Kim's Kitchen , Pizza House , White Pepper and A Taste of India also having stands outside their business where you can grab a sustaining snack. Both Embrace Design and Wired Pup Coffee will be open until 5 pm on festival day, offering a special promotion! Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa Special: Make a purchase over $15 at Embrace Design and receive a free pencil & pen cube of your choice! ✏️🖊️ Come by, grab a coffee, and enjoy the festive vibes while shopping local! You can check all the other Tawa businesses that will be open within the festival area here.   Why You Should Attend? You should come to support the local business community, you should come to have fun, and enjoy free activities, authentic cuisines from different parts of the world, local crafts, and unique retailers. Please come with reusable bags and containers to help minimize waste and make the event eco-friendly. Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa 2024 is shaping up to be an incredible day, full of energy, laughter, and community spirit. So, mark your calendars, follow Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa's Facebook  or Instagram accounts and we’ll see you from 10 am to 3 pm on 19 October for a day to remember!

In the dynamic landscape of employment and community life in Wellington, Tawa stands out as a hub of opportunity and connection. As we navigate through 2024, the suburb's supportive business environment, family-friendly amenities, and vibrant community initiatives are becoming increasingly significant. Let’s explore how Tawa offers solutions for everyone, from entrepreneurs to families, shaping the vibrant life and opportunities in this region. Tawa: A Hub of Opportunity With projected population growth in Wellington, Tawa is positioning itself as a desirable place to live, work and play. Accessibility is a significant advantage in Tawa, thanks to its ease of access south to Wellington CBD (17 minutes by car) and north to the Kāpiti Coast (29 minutes by car) and its excellent public transport system, where a 15-minute train trip will have you in Wellington CBD and the on-demand bus service allows for a restful journey back up the hill to your home. All which makes commuting easy and stress-free. However, Tawa's appeal goes beyond transport—it’s a community dedicated to inclusivity and support, fostering a strong sense of belonging. One of our business owners Maureen Bowring from Haircraft Centre spoke about our supportive Tawa community. Maureen has been a business owner since 1978. The majority of her family consists of hairdressers and barbers. She says, "Tawa community really supports their local businesses." She emphasized that if you are really good at your job, you will attract customers not only from Tawa but also from far and wide. As Tawa connects to many other regions, she manages clients from Porirua, Lower Hutt, Wellington City, Kāpiti, and Ōtaki. Tawa offers a strategic location that connects to Wellington and other key regions. From the town centre, along the Main Road and through to the Outlet City retail park and onto the newly completed Takapū Rise business park, there are significant opportunities for business investment for entrepreneurs, established business owners looking to upsize or new business owners looking at taking their first step into commercial premises . Family-Friendly with Community Connections Tawa’s reputation as a family-friendly suburb cannot be overstated. Families find Tawa to be a haven with its abundance of amenities, excellent schools, and safe neighborhoods. The community is known for its vibrant spirit and strong support system, making it an ideal place to raise children and build lasting relationships. Regular community events  further enhance the collaborative spirit, providing ample networking opportunities and fostering community-based connections. While Wellington City is teeming with opportunities, Tawa offers both the comfort of a close-knit community and a wealth of open spaces, sporting venues and options for young and old to let off steam. The annual Spring Into Tawa event draws thousands of people into the Main Road to celebrate with unique stalls, exciting entertainment, free activities for children and trucks full of fabulous food. Tony Afendoulis, co-owner of Lowe & Co . Tawa, says, "I have been living in Tawa for 37 years. I love Tawa. Tawa captured my heart. I have always dreamed of becoming a business owner and being courageous. When the opportunity came, I found the perfect office building in Tawa. Being already familiar with the ins and outs of Tawa was advantageous. Through my community work, people in Tawa know me on both a personal and professional level. My advice to anyone thinking about launching a business in Tawa, or who has just started, is to get to know your surroundings, build relationships with the people in Tawa, be genuine, take time to learn what works and what doesn't, and you'll thrive." Tony is also an executive team member with the Tawa Business Group. He said: "With Tawa Business Group's recent efforts on the subject of paid parking, they truly helped our voices be heard by Wellington City Council (WCC). The introduction of suburban paid parking would have harmed our businesses, but we were fortunate to have an active Tawa BID that advocated for us, resulting in WCC dropping the suburban paid parking proposal from their long-term plan." Tawa Offers Business Solutions for Everyone Tawa is more than just a suburb of Wellington; it’s a thriving business community where everyone can find solutions to their needs. Whether you’re looking for a bite to eat, a change of tyres for your car, a kitchen re-fit, or financial or legal advice, Tawa has something for you. Our Business Directory is an ideal starting point to find exactly what you're looking for. Judith Gray shares her experience: "Nada Bakery originally started in 1975 in Hataitai, Wellington. We had seven retail shops around the city at one stage. In 1984, we decided to consolidate down to one shop in Johnsonville. In 2011, we opened a purpose-built baking facility with a café in Tawa, and we thought it would be good to have something at the southern end of the suburb. I have lived in Tawa since 1982, raised my family here, and now most of them have bought their own homes in Tawa. The community is very diverse and has a wide demographic. People are very welcoming, and once they live in Tawa, they want the area to succeed. If your business captures them, they will be pleased to be your customers. If you operate on a national or global market, Tawa is well-placed to access Wellington City and beyond". In addition to its laudable location, the presence of a skilled workforce and local talent pool makes Tawa an attractive destination for businesses looking to establish or expand their operations. Collaborative initiatives and community connections further enhance the business landscape, promoting innovation and growth. In Tawa, everyone can find their niche and thrive. Whether you’re looking to start a business, upgrade or downsize your business, or simply enjoy a welcoming and dynamic business community, Tawa offers solutions for everyone. Kash from Skye Candle and Body Care , is keen to share why she chose Tawa as her business destination: Kash says: "I started Skye Candle from my garage at home. As the business grew, I began searching for the perfect location to expand. I often came to Tawa to drop off my daughter at childcare and visit the gym. One day, I saw a commercial property listing sign and immediately fell in love with the shop. The leasing process was incredibly smooth, and I have a great landlord. Everyone in Tawa is so supportive and loves to back their local businesses. Recently, I celebrated my third anniversary of opening my store here, and I couldn't be more thankful. I have customers from all over Wellington and beyond. Tawa offers so much, such as amazing cafés, restaurants, bush walks, shopping, hairdressers, and a safe environment. My customers love to hang around and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Even on cold, rainy days, people come here to shop. My advice to anyone considering starting a business is to "write down your goals and achieve them one by one." Work from Home Working from home has transformed our approach to employment with many people combining flexibility between the work and home office, enhancing their much-needed work-life balance. This shift not only suits personal preferences but also fosters a more inclusive and diverse workforce, opening up opportunities for individuals with disabilities and those in remote areas. Working close to home also offers significant benefits, reducing the stress of commuting and promoting mental well-being—it's almost like working from home. Many employers in Tawa offer flexible working options, further enhancing the appeal of local employment. In Tawa, businesses are increasingly advertising jobs through various portals to attract local talent, including our job vacancy page , which is continuously updating jobs in Tawa. Is Tawa a Rising Star for Work and Community in Wellington? With its strategic location, vibrant community, and supportive business environment, Tawa is rapidly gaining recognition as an ideal place to live, work, and visit. Entrepreneurs and established business owners benefit from the increasing foot traffic and excellent connectivity to other key regions, ensuring a steady flow of customers and opportunities. The community’s diverse and welcoming nature, combined with excellent schools and family-friendly amenities, makes Tawa an attractive destination for families looking to settle down. The strong local support system and community spirit foster an environment where families can thrive and build lasting relationships. Business owners in Tawa, like Kash from Skye Candle, Judith Gray from Nada Bakery, and many others highlight the suburb’s unique advantages. They emphasize the ease of setting up businesses, the supportive local community, and the strategic benefits of Tawa’s location. The presence of active initiatives and positive advocacy from us here at the Tawa Business Group further strengthens the local business environment. Tawa’s commitment to quality and innovation, as seen in its businesses and community projects, ensures that it remains relevant and competitive in the market. The combination of urban convenience and suburban tranquility offers a high quality of life that attracts both residents and visitors. Tawa is indeed a rising star in Wellington’s landscape. At Tawa Business Group, we embrace the wisdom of the renowned Māori saying, "He aha te mea nui? Māku e kii atu, he tāngata, he tāngata, he tāngata." What is the most important thing in the world? It is people, it is people, it is people. This belief underscores our commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive community where everyone can thrive. Together, we can continue to build a vibrant future for Tawa, grounded in the strength and spirit of its people.

< Back to Community Organisations Pest Free Tawa pftawa@gmail.com Hours: Pest Free Tawa (PFT) engages our parks, reserves, residential properties, schools and businesses to protect the taonga of Tawa. We see ecological pest management becoming entrenched as an everyday part of what it means to live, work and learn in Tawa. Tawa plays a key role in connecting Wellington with Porirua, so we make up part of the ‘front line of defence’ in the Predator Free Wellington movement. Tawa also holds regionally significant stands of forest which provide a spring-board for our manu mates to return to our suburb. Having endemic mokomoko/skinks and birds such as kākāriki, kākā and kārearea return to Tawa for the first time in over one hundred years has been the catalyst behind this project. Our current goal is to get one in five households in Tawa trapping pests. To get on board with this exciting initiative, send an email to pftawa@gmail.com and we’ll deliver a trap right to your door.

< Back to Business Directory Waitomo Group 0800 922 123 enquiry@waitomogroup.co.nz 26 Main Road, Tawa, Wellington, New Zealand Hours: Open 24 hours, Seven Days a week Since 1947, our 100-percent Kiwi, family-owned and operated business has been fueling Kiwis across New Zealand. Whether you own a business, or just need to fuel up your vehicle, we have the solution for you. Based in the heart of the Waikato in Hamilton, we operate more than 65 Fuel Stops and Diesel Stops stretching from Paihia to Dunedin. Market disruptors, we deliver competition and choice to Kiwi motorists. We also provide bulk fuel supply, onsite diesel supply, and fuel storage solutions. Our Waitomo Fuel Cards give Kiwi businesses access to tailored commercial rates or our pump price - whichever is lowest. Seventy years on, we're proud to be serving our Kiwi customers with the same formula we always have - great people, top performance, and a fairer price for your fuel. If you'd like to join our journey, we'd love to hear from you. Find us on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/waitomo-group/?originalSubdomain=nz

< Back to Business Directory Beyond Yoga 022 401 1563 info@beyondyoga.co.nz unit 4/82 Main Road, Tawa, Wellington, New Zealand Hours: Monday: 6-6:45 am, 6:15 - 8:30 pm Tuesday: 10:45 am - 1 pm, 6:15 - 8:30 pm Wednesday: 6 - 6:45 am, 9:30 - 10:30 am, 6:15 - 8:30 pm Thursday : 12:15 - 1 pm, 6:15 - 8:30 pm Friday: 9:30 - 10:30 am, 6:15 - 7:15 pm Saturday: 9 - 10 am Sunday: 9 - 11 am, 4 - 5 pm Beyond Yoga is a boutique yoga studio that opened in November 2020 by Tawa local and long-time yoga teacher and teacher trainer, Samantha Rozitis. We are the first yoga studio in Tawa, offering small group classes and private yoga sessions to all levels of experience, from absolute beginner to seasoned practitioner. Our class styles include Flow (dynamic), Mellow (gentle movement) and Yin (relaxing).