A new social network for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people in South Auckland is to be launched with a BBQ on Sunday 2 March at Manukau Institute of Technology from 3pm til 7pm. The social network is an initiative of Hau Ora Takataapui, a Maori health promotion team within the New Zealand AIDS Foundation, working in conjunction with support co-ordinators from the Manukau Institute of Technology. "There is a thriving and vibrant community of GLBT people in the South Auckland region, but few social activities to cater for them," says Eriata Peri, Hau Ora Takataapui Team Leader. "This will be a great way to meet other GLBT people as a safe and non-threatening alternative to the central city bar and venue scene." Building strong communities is an essential part of the work of Hau Ora Takataapui, which works to prevent the transmission of HIV among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men of Maori descent. "One gay or bisexual man is being diagnosed with HIV every five days in New Zealand, and most of these diagnoses are happening in Auckland," says Peri. "We need to ensure that men who aren't central city-based still have access to safe sex information and condoms, as well as being able to make new friends in a friendly and relaxed environment." Free food and refreshments will be provided at the drug and alcohol-free event. It is hoped that enough interest will be generated from the BBQ to establish a social network and have regular gatherings throughout the year. "A group like this is really needed in South Auckland, not just for gay and bisexual men, but for lesbians and transgender people as well," says Sandra Morris, one of the event co-ordinators. "We shouldn't have to travel into the central city, with the limited options that the bar and club scene provides, just to socialise. It's important for those of us who live in south Auckland to have that social support from our peers." Those interested in attending are asked to RSVP by Monday 25 February for catering purposes to Eriata Peri at the Hau Ora Takataapui office via phone (09) 300 6953 or email eriata.peri@nzaf.org.nz. A confirmation email or text with directions to the venue will be returned.
Credit: GayNZ.com News Staff
First published: Monday, 18th February 2008 - 2:08pm