Hibiscus Coast Hams: Whangaparaoa Radio Club a Thriving Hub for Amateur Enthusiasts

Whangaparaoa, NZ – Perched on the stunning Hibiscus Coast, the Whangaparaoa amateur radio branch (Branch Number 80) stands as a vibrant and accessible centre for local "hams" and anyone keen to delve into the world of wireless communication. With regular meetings, an active HF net, and a welcoming approach to new members, this club is a key part of the region's radio landscape.

The club convenes at their dedicated clubrooms located at 1/479 Whangaparaoa Road, Stanmore Bay 0932. This convenient spot serves as the central point for their monthly gatherings and informal sessions. For postal correspondence, their address is PO Box 305, Whangaparaoa 0943.

Dedicated Leadership Guiding the Airwaves

The Hibiscus Coast branch is led by a committed team of officers who ensure smooth operations and a strong focus on community engagement, including emergency preparedness:

• President: J.P. Diel (Callsign ZL1RPL) leads the branch, and can be reached at dieljph@me.com.
• Secretary: Brenton Faithfull (Callsign ZL1BBF) handles the club's administration and is the primary contact for general inquiries and clubroom access. He can be contacted at brenton@faithfulls.co.nz or by phone at 027 490 7210.
• AREC Group Leader: Samuel Dykes (Callsign ZL1FBT) is responsible for the club's vital Amateur Radio Emergency Communications (AREC) efforts, contactable at glhibiscus@arec.nz.

While the Club Call Sign Trustee is noted, the specific name was not provided in the original information, suggesting inquiries could be directed to the Secretary.

Regular Meetings and Active Nets for All

The Hibiscus Coast branch maintains a consistent schedule for its members to gather, learn, and connect:

• General Meetings: These are held at 7:30 PM on the second Wednesday of every month, immediately following the Committee meeting. These gatherings are an excellent opportunity for members to discuss club news, share technical insights, and socialize.
• AGM (Annual General Meeting): The club's AGM takes place annually at 7:30 PM on the second Wednesday in March.

Beyond formal meetings, the Hibiscus Coast branch keeps the airwaves active with its regular HF Net, held every Monday at 8:00 PM on 3605 kHz. This provides a consistent opportunity for members to make contact and engage in discussions.

Accessible Clubrooms for Informal Sessions

A notable feature of the Hibiscus Coast group is the availability of their clubrooms for informal meetings and classes. This offers valuable flexibility for members to work on projects, study for exams, or simply enjoy impromptu social sessions. Access to the clubrooms can be arranged by contacting the Club Secretary.

Whether you're a seasoned "ham" looking for a vibrant local community, an aspiring radio amateur keen to earn your license, or simply interested in the world of wireless communication, the Hibiscus Coast amateur radio branch offers a welcoming and active environment right on your doorstep.

For more details on the Hibiscus Coast amateur radio group and their activities, or to arrange access to the clubrooms, reach out to their dedicated officers!