U3A is short for ‘University of the Third Age’ – but don’t be put off by the idea of exclusive ivory towers! This is a Wairarapa-wide organisation of not-so-young people who meet in small groups to do things they enjoy.
Wairarapa is not alone. U3A began in France about 40 years ago and has since spread to many countries. The ‘third age’ notion developed from the division of life into three stages: childhood and schooling; adulthood, work and family; and “afterwards” – the ‘Third Age’.
Joining U3A is a great way to learn new skills, meet new people and stimulate your mind, all while having fun. Members can participate in any or all of the groups or attend on a casual basis. There are no obligations. Once in a while the Committee organise a public meeting or outing. For example, this month a trip to Wellington’s Downstage Theatre is under way.
Most of the [currently] 14 groups meet once a month; one or two more often. Some involve learning – like the Opera Appreciation, Italian and French ones; others serious or hilarious [or both!] discussion. Current Affairs [with food], Philosophy and the Lunch Group fit in well here. For those with literary interests and skills, there’s Poetry, three Book Groups, Creative Writing, and ‘Journaling’. Monthly newsletters with reports from the groups and other gems keep members informed and entertained. One of the best aspects of U3A is the support and communication and the forging of friendships which follow from members getting together.
Annual membership [January – December] costs $15. For more information, contact the Secretary Keitha Roberts – keitha.c.roberts@gmail.com or ph Greytown 304 8534 or Maree Roy, xanthe.cats@xtra.co.nz, ph 306 9319.
