The Ponsonby Community Centre Trust (PCCT) is an independent governing body responsible for the Ponsonby Community Centre, Freemans Bay Community Centre and Tole Park Community Preschool. While the buildings are owned by Auckland Council, they are operated by the Trust.
The centres provide affordable venue hire for individuals, community groups and local organisations, with a particular focus on supporting not-for-profits. Tole Park Community Preschool caters for children aged two to five, with a maximum session size of 31 children. Across its operations, the Trust employs seven staff, including the Centre Manager, Preschool Manager, Venue and Programming Coordinator, and four permanent and casual teachers.
Following a rigorous procurement process with Auckland Council, the Trust was appointed to manage Freemans Bay Community Centre in October 2025. The purpose-built 1970s venue includes a large auditorium and several meeting rooms.
Ponsonby Community Centre has operated for nearly 30 years and continues to develop programmes in response to community needs. It offers classes and events for all ages and works in partnership with other organisations to broaden its community services.
The Trust generates income through venue hire and preschool fees and receives operational funding from Auckland Council under an annual agreement, as well as funding from the Ministry of Education as a certified early childhood education provider.
The PCCT Board provides strategic oversight and ensures the Trust meets its legal and financial obligations. It works closely with the Centre and Preschool Managers to establish priorities, support operations and develop policies. Collectively, the Board must maintain the skills and experience required to fulfil its governance responsibilities effectively.
The Board is seeking new members who can contribute diverse professional expertise, with a preference for residents of Freemans Bay and Ponsonby, but non-residents are also welcome to apply.
We are looking for enthusiastic, committed team players who are willing to contribute their skills and support the Managers in responding to the needs of the local community.
We are seeking individuals with skills and experience in areas including, but not limited to, community governance, preschool education, finance and accounting, marketing, and the not-for-profit sector. A strong passion for supporting not-for-profit organisations is highly valued.
The Board meets monthly for approximately two hours to review operational performance and policies. The total commitment is expected to be up to five hours per month, including Board meetings.
Further information is available at:
- www.ponsonbycommunity.org.nz
- www.freemansbaycommunity.org.nz
- www.tolepark.org.nz
To submit an expression of interest, please contact the Manager at lisa@ponsonbycommunity.org.nz.