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Pat Bloxham - the new patron of the Ōtaki women's club

Introducing Pat Bloxham, the new Patron of the Otaki Women's Community Club (OWCC). Pat is a familiar face in our community, known for her warmth, dedication and genuine love for Ōtaki. She brings heartfelt commitment to supporting the OWCC's initiatives: including the Ōtaki Market, Ōtaki Kids Market, volunteering for local causes, donating to local charities, organisations and individuals.


As Patron, Pat's vision is all about building a vibrant, inclusive Women's Club, where we can all connect, celebrate and thrive together. We are so excited to have her as Patron and the positive impact she will undoubtedly bring to the club.


Pat Bloxham, the new Patron of the Otaki Women's Community Club (O
Pat Bloxham, the new Patron of the Otaki Women's Community Club

You've been involved with the club for quite some time. Can you share how the club has evolved over the years since you first became a member?

I was a lioness (1980s) well before the Ōtaki Women's Community Club was established and when the Lions Club virtually closed us down, we voted to go out on our own rather than to continue to send big money to America to support Lions International. 


I feel very humbled and honored to be made Patron of the Otaki Women's Community Club.

After many meetings in members' homes, we wrote our constitution which was accepted by the Registrar of Incorporated Societies, our numbers dropped over time and there were less and less people that were prepared to take positions that are required to run the Club.  We were expecting to close down and had held some meetings with the end in sight.



What initially motivated you to get involved, and what has kept you engaged with the organization for so long?

Originally, I was invited by Chrissy Anderson to become a Lioness, and I enjoyed it so much that I continued on with the membership apart from a short break.  I enjoy the social aspect and meeting new friends and also helping the community and individuals where we live.


Pat Bloxham at a social evening for the Otaki Women's Club
Cira 1980s Pat with her husband Roger at a social evening

As a former treasurer, you likely played a key role in the financial management of the club. Are there any particular moments or achievements within the club that you are especially proud of?

As former treasurer, I was very proud of the achievements we made in helping to keep the health shuttle between Ōtaki and Palmerston North on the road, also assisting many cancer patients along with Ozanam House, the Surf Club, the Fire Brigade, the Rescue Helicopter, the Blind Institute, Life Flight, the Night patrol and many students from Ōtaki College along with many sporting clubs in Ōtaki.



The Ōtaki Market is an important initiative of the club. How did it come about, and what role do you believe it plays in bringing the community together?

The Ōtaki Market is a very important initiative of the Club.  It came about by previous members Steve and Sheryl Gray, who took it under their wing when the Lions Club disbanded.  It is bigger and stronger now than ever before and brings many people from the community together on a Sunday, especially around lunchtime, also to buy that unique gift for a birthday or Christmas present.


As Patron I envisage that the Club will go from strength to strength.  I would like to see the club continue to focus and build on more fun and fellowship in the future.

Learn more about the Otaki Women's Community Club:



As Patron, what do you envision for the future of the Ōtaki Women's Community Club? Are there any goals or initiatives you hope to see the club pursue?

I would encourage new members and the younger generation to join us, gain an insight into our activities, forge new friendships and contribute to the local community. The most rewarding aspect of my involvement is to see the club continue to prosper and grow and attract new younger members, especially when a couple of years ago we were planning on closure due to declining membership.


I believe the Club empowers women by fostering strength and enhancing their confidence.   

How do you feel the club’s work has impacted the broader Ōtaki community, especially in terms of empowering women and supporting local businesses?

They are able to try new things in a safe environment, share stories and build support networks.  Many local businesses have supported the market and in return they have been supported and advertised.


Photo taken at a recent morning tea to farewell Marian Gallagher the former Patron of the Club and to welcome Pat Bloxham as the new Patron.

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