Our story
Our story
The Birkenhead RSA since 1929.
Nearly a century of community, welfare and remembrance on Auckland's North Shore. A club built by those who served, and kept alive by those who believe in looking after each other.
Who we are
A community built on service
The Birkenhead RSA has been a fixture on Recreation Drive since 1970, welcoming members, their families and their guests. We are part of the Returned Services Association of New Zealand, one of the country's most enduring community organisations.
Our membership spans Returned Members (those who have served overseas), Service Members (current and former New Zealand Armed Forces personnel), Women's Section members, and Associate members from all walks of life. Associate membership is open to everyone. No sponsor required.
History
A timeline
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1929
The beginning
The club was first conceived at a meeting of interested people held in the rooms of Dr J.W. Craven at Highbury. A small group with a shared vision: to create a lasting home for those who had served.
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1930
First AGM
The inaugural Annual General Meeting was held on 30 August 1930, formally establishing the Birkenhead RSA as an incorporated body.
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1934
A home of our own
The club purchased the RAOB Hall, giving members a permanent base on the North Shore.
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1970
New clubrooms
The club relocated to War Memorial Park on Recreation Drive following the development of a shopping centre on the previous site. New, larger clubrooms were opened, providing far better facilities for a growing membership.
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1972-73
Direct RSA affiliation
The Birkenhead RSA received direct affiliation from the Returned Services Association of New Zealand, cementing its place in the national RSA family.
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1984-1999
Three decades of growth
Major expansions in 1984, 1989 and 1999 transformed the clubrooms into the facility members enjoy today, with a restaurant, two bars, gaming room, conference facilities and multiple sports areas.
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Today
A community of over 2,000
The Birkenhead RSA now has more than 2,000 members across Returned, Service, Associate and Women's Section categories. The club continues to grow, to serve, and to welcome new members from all walks of life.
A name to remember
The Don Stott Memorial Restaurant
Our restaurant is named in honour of Don Stott, a Birkenhead local and one of New Zealand's most decorated military heroes. The naming reflects the RSA's enduring commitment to remembering those who gave so much in service to their country and community.
Be part of the story
Nearly a century in, the Birkenhead RSA is still growing, still welcoming new faces and still looking after those who have served. Join us and become part of something that lasts.