A new social dining club in Cromwell, ‘Table for Eight’ (TFE), is a way to make new friendship connections in Central.

The club is for singles aged 20 and up (could be newly single, separated, widowed or divorced) and organised by the Cromwell Newcomers group.

The meetings will be on the third Thursday of each month, with drinks at 6pm and dinner at 6.30pm.

Cromwell Newcomers network facilitator and TFE organiser Sharon Smid said the tables will be grouped by age and interest and an even gender split. 

“It’s early days and we are getting the word out… I’m hoping numbers will be enough to get going in May.”

Sharon said TFE is not a dating agency but that the intention is to have friendships and relationships grow organically as the social meet ups continue.

“I’ve heard for single people it is difficult going to events where there are a lot of couples… and some pockets of people are finding it hard, and feeling uncomfortable in certain situations.”

Table for Eight is going to be flexible and cater to what the community wants. 

“We could run a lunchtime table, maybe mums on their own wanting to connect with other mums... [and] have a social time without the children. That goes for dads too. If there is interest we will do our best to meet the need.”

Sharon said tables could be set up for young couples, professionals working from home who are new to the area, or the rainbow community or international residents. 

At each dinner the Cromwell Newcomers Network will facilitate introductions for the table to break the ice and welcome diners.

Sharon is getting assistance with setting up Cromwell’s TFE from Ann-Marie Searle (QSM) who previously led TFE in Invercargill for several years. 

Five local restaurants have agreed to come on board so far: Black Rabbit, Five Stags, Amigos, Pisa Moorings and Victoria Arms Hotel. 

People keen on joining TFE, or other restaurants keen on hosting tables need to email: [email protected]