The newly-formed Hauraki branch of Good Bitches Baking is beginning to rise.
After joining the Thames chapter in August, Christine Laurenson has since launched a Paeroa group with a handful of volunteers on board.
And with plans being cooked up for further expansion, Christine said the organisation was already making a meaningful difference.
Good Bitches Baking [GBB] is a national organisation founded in Wellington in 2014, in which more than 3,500 volunteers bake and deliver treats to nearly 590 organisations that offer support to those having a hard time.
“Starting up the Hauraki chapter has shown me just how many people in our communities are
going through tough times for all sorts of reasons,” Christine said.
“The support agencies working quietly behind the scenes do an incredible job, and the more I connect with potential recipients, the more I realise just how many wonderful organisations are out there helping people in need.
“There is definitely a need for GBB here.”
Recently retired, Christine has a long history in hospitality and tourism – experience she said had been invaluable as she built up a network of bakers and recipients in the Hauraki.
In her “previous life”, she owned and operated Kōpu Café, managed Pedlars Motel in Paeroa for three years, and later started a touring business, Valley Tours and Transfers, alongside a shared partnership in Hauraki Bike Hire, servicing the Hauraki Rail Trail.
But Christine said she was drawn to GBB for its simplicity and heart.
“It felt like a no-brainer for me,” she said. “I love helping people and I love baking. Being part of GBB has also connected me with a whole new network of like-minded friends, not only locally, but across New Zealand who share the same mission.”
Christine is also focused on expanding the Hauraki outreach even further.
“Because we’re in the early stages of establishing within the Paeroa area, our focus has been
on recruiting our wonderful bakers.
“Our aim is to have around 20 bakers on the roster each month, giving us enough flexibility to cover baking days and match volunteers’ availability,” she said.
“At the moment we have three recipient organisations receiving weekly baking, and as we grow we’ll continue approaching others. My intent is to expand into Wāihi in early 2026, followed by Ngātea and surrounding areas.”
The Paeroa chapter’s first official rostered baking will coincide with Christmas giving, and Christine said her bakers would no doubt be creative in bringing “a bit of festivity to those receiving”.
She also encouraged anyone wanting to get involved to visit the Good Bitches Baking website, which explained how to become a baker or a recipient.
“You don’t need to be a master baker – just someone who can bake with love and wants to share that kindness with others,” Christine said. “Spreading the word is also a huge help. Letting people know we’re here and working to make a positive impact in the community is one of the most valuable ways to support us.”
BY KELLEY TANTAU
