It's all change for the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board as April draws to a close.

East Coast Bays representative Alexis Poppelbaum is poised to take the helm as Chair, while Gary Brown steps into the role of deputy for the remainder of the current term.

Members have opted for a unique approach, dividing the three-year term into two halves, each with a different chair and deputy.

This time around, the responsibilities have been evenly distributed between the board's two subdivisions.

Come April 29th, Alexis Poppelbaum will officially step into the chair role, set to lead until October 2025.

Meanwhile, Hibiscus Coast member Gary Brown, the outgoing chair, will seamlessly transition into the deputy chair position, formerly held by East Coast Bays member Julia Parfitt.

Reflecting on his tenure, Brown expresses pride in the board's accomplishments and excitement for upcoming projects set to shape the community's future.

He highlights notable initiatives such as the Ōrewa Library extension and the Ōrewa Beach seawall and walkway, slated to commence shortly.

"I want to thank Julia for her fantastic contribution and her willingness to share her considerable knowledge and experience with other board members. I wish Alexis well as she steps into the chair role and look forward to working with her," Brown remarks warmly.

In response, Parfitt expresses gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with fellow board members, council staff, and the community.

She emphasises the significance of projects like the Bays Community Centre refurbishment, aimed at enhancing community spaces for future generations.

"A project very close to my heart is the Bays Community Centre refurbishment, and the work will ensure the building is fit for purpose and available to the community for a long time," Parfitt shares earnestly.

As the transition unfolds, community engagement remains a priority.

Poppelbaum extends an invitation to the public, encouraging attendance at the upcoming local board business meeting scheduled for Tuesday, May 28th, at 10 am in Browns Bay.

"The second half of the term looks to be exciting and challenging. We have several large projects starting and along with their delivery, we will focus on solutions that achieve the best possible results for our community," Poppelbaum anticipates optimistically.

The changes in leadership signal a period of transition and opportunity for the Hibiscus and Bays community.

With new leadership at the helm, the board is poised to tackle challenges and spearhead initiatives that will shape the area's future for years to come.