If you’ve ever stopped at Moenui Reserve in Orewa, you’ll know the sound of gulls squabbling overhead and the steady roll of the tide.

Soon, there’ll be something new among the trees and ocean views – a “Chatterbox Seat,” purpose-built to help locals pause, reflect, or strike up a conversation.

Chatterbox began in 2019, after founder Emily Paton lost her husband Darryl to suicide.

Determined to make it easier for people to talk about the big things, Emily unveiled the first seat at Pt Chevalier Beach in 2022.

Since then, more have been planned around Auckland, each designed to encourage conversation and reduce the stigma still surrounding mental health.

Here on the Hibiscus Coast, where mental health challenges are higher than average, the idea quickly resonated.

While professional services like Youth in Transition and Ember do incredible work, sometimes the smallest act – sitting down, saying hello, sharing a moment – can be what really helps.

This Orewa project was first suggested by Anna McGovern at More FM and taken on by Destination Orewa Beach.

Destination Orewa Beach Manager Hellen Wilkins says, “As maintaining good mental health should be a priority for everyone and we realise there are many in our community struggling with their own mental health, this seat provides a tranquil and peaceful place for people to sit in peace or engage with others.”

The journey to make it happen hasn’t been easy.

The project cost about $5,800, with support from the Rotary Club of Orewa-Millwater and, crucially, ASB’s Community Grants scheme.

The seat itself is square-shaped, not a traditional bench, designed for group seating and cross-legged chats.

Installation is expected to take place in Spring.

Destination Orewa has gifted the seat to the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board, who will plant it in Moenui Reserve and maintain it as part of the park’s assets.

The location, near the More FM office, was chosen for its tranquil ocean outlook – a peaceful setting to pause, reflect, and connect.

So when it’s in place, take a moment to sit, breathe, and maybe start a conversation.

You never know whose day it might brighten.

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