Whānau Circle by TFG is about connection, learning and support for parents and whānau.

We know that parenting looks different for every family. It can be full of joy, uncertainty, funny moments, tough days and everything in between. Sometimes you want advice or practical support. Other times, you just want to sit down with a cup of coffee, have a conversation with another adult and remember that you're not the only one figuring things out as you go. Whānau Circle is being created to make more room for those connections.

Over time, we hope to offer a range of opportunities for parents and whānau to come together, learn from others, share experiences and access practical support. This may include workshops, guest speakers, parenting programmes, coffee mornings, family activities, wellbeing events and useful resources. But before we start planning all of that, we want to start with something simple: bringing people together.

Arrive, settle in and get comfortable

From 5.30 pm, you'll have time to arrive, get settled and drop your children off at the childcare area at Villa Aroha next door.

Once the children are settled, head across to the TFG office and courtyard. There will be drinks and light nibbles available, with time to mingle and meet a few people before dinner.

Sit down to dinner

At 6.00 pm, we'll come together for dinner. The evening will be relaxed and informal, with shared tables to make it easy to chat and get to know other parents and caregivers.

There will be optional conversation cards on the tables if you need a little help getting a conversation started. No forced icebreakers or awkward introductions just a few prompts to help the conversation flow if you want them.

Enjoy some time for yourself

After dinner, you're welcome to stay, enjoy a coffee and keep chatting until around 8.00 pm.

There's no expectation to share personal stories, talk about parenting challenges or take part in any structured activities. Come as you are, join the conversations that feel comfortable and enjoy the evening at your own pace.

We know that finding childcare can be one of the biggest barriers to getting out of the house, even when an event sounds lovely.

That's why we're making it easier.

While you enjoy dinner at TFG, your children can spend the evening in the childcare area at Villa Aroha, next door on the same property. Their dinner will be sorted too, so you can sit down and enjoy yours.

Here's how it works:

• Arrive at TFG from 5.30 pm.
  Settle your children into the designated childcare area at Villa Aroha.

• Head across to the TFG office and courtyard to enjoy the evening.

• Relax, eat dinner and connect with other parents while the children are cared for next door.

We'll provide further information about the childcare arrangements when you book, including the details we need from you about your children. Please include your children's ages and any relevant care, dietary or other requirements in your booking so we can confirm whether we can accommodate them safely.

Dinner's On Us is for parents and caregivers from our wider local community.

You don't need to be a Villa Aroha family, and you don't need to be a first-time parent or have a particular concern you'd like help with.

We welcome mums, dads, caregivers and whānau from different backgrounds, cultures and family structures. Whether you're raising little ones, navigating the school years or simply looking to meet more people in your community, we'd love you to join us.

You might be new to the area, keen to make some local connections, looking for a relaxed evening out or simply interested in finding out more about Whānau Circle.

Whatever brings you along, you're welcome here.

The event is designed primarily for adults caring for children from baby age through to primary and intermediate school age, reflecting the childcare arrangements available on the evening. Please provide your children's ages when booking so we can confirm the arrangements.

Dinner's On Us is a free community event.

Your attendance is free, and childcare is included at no cost.

A koha is welcome if you'd like to contribute, but it is absolutely not expected. There is no set amount, and you do not need to make a contribution to attend.

We want this to be an accessible opportunity for parents and caregivers to connect, without the cost of a night out getting in the way.