U3A is an international organization for people in their ‘Third Age’—whether you are retired, semi-retired, or simply have time to spare. There are no age limits for joining.
We have over 800+ members (as at Dec 2025) in the Tauranga and Western Bay areas, with 70+ interest groups that provide a wide range of opportunities to come together to learn and explore new ideas, skills and activities.
Interest Group categories include: Art, Design, Books, Cards, Computing, Current Events, Dining, Films, History, Languages, Music, Nature, Photography, Physical Exercise, Sciences, etc. Meetings are held in the members’ homes or in local venues.
Monthly Meetings are held every month in Tauranga and Katikati with an opportunity to hear guest speakers and socialise.
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International Affairs – Join Us Now
International Affairs is open to new members. The only requirement is to have access to Zoom on your computer.
The Convenor, Ian Morrison, says ‘Given the current disturbed state of the world, there might be U3A members who do not know about our group’s approach and might wish to take advantage of these gatherings.
If you would like to join this group, please contact: ianmorrison887@gmail.com
Read about our May Speakers -
Groups Seeking New Members
New Group – Pilates
We’re thrilled to announce a new mat Pilates group starting Wednesday June 17th. Classes will be held every Wednesday from 9.30 – 10.30 in a central city hall guided by an experienced instructor. These sessions are designed to be safe, supportive and age appropriate. You will only need to bring a yoga mat and $10.
Attendance is by registration and spaces are limited so register by contacting Jenni Baxter via the I-P co-ordinator at i2p.groups@u3atauranga.org.nz.
We look forward to seeing you there.
Jenni & Joanne (co-convenors)
Monthly Meetings
Once a month we meet at the Tauranga Yacht Club or Katikati Community Hub for a social morning where invited keynote speakers present illustrated talks of major interest.
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Tauranga: 19th June 2026
Main Speaker: David Lyon
Topic: ‘Doing Time’
Short Speaker: U3A Tauranga Opera Appreciation Group.
Topic: ‘Your Invitation to the Opera – try something new for 2026’About main speakers talk
Background: David was employed by the Justice Department, the forerunner of the current Corrections Department, from 1978 to 1995. Initially employed as a Probation Officer in Rotorua and Tokoroa David subsequently managed Probation Service operations on the West Coast of the South Island and Tauranga. He then simultaneously managed both the country’s oldest and newest prisons in Hawkes Bay before becoming the National Projects Manager for the Prison Service in Wellington.
David would like to share his experiences of working with both those employed to work for the Justice Department and those who were subject to incarceration after conviction for one or more imprisonable offences. He would also like to share his thoughts on how imprisonment can most effectively be used to protect society and reduce the likelihood of further offending.
David enjoys being a member of the Hikers 1 and Hikers 2 walking groups within U3A.
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Katikati: 10th June 2026
Main Speaker: TBA
Topic:
Short Speaker: