District 202M
Lower North Island East Coast
Lions District 202M welcomes you to our district webpage
The Lion Clubs of our district (the Mighty M) stretch from the East Cape down the East Coast to Wellington, then head north as far as Levin along the Kapiti Coast. We have always been strong Lion Club supporters in this District with Masterton Host Waipoua being the third Lions Club to be formed in New Zealand (Nov 1957) and many Clubs now celebrating their 50th or more anniversary.
Over the years, we have had a positive impact on all of our communities completing a wide range of service projects. That remains our core driver but we are reviewing the services we deliver in our local community now to ensure that they are still relevant and needed. This will help make our work of even more interest to residents who perhaps had never considered Lions before.
We need more help to meet the increasing calls for help from our communities.
Our Clubs have been fairly traditional with meetings and working bees – this is transforming with increasing use of technology and social media that allow for our New Zealand society now working 24 hrs per day x 7 days per week all year.
Lions Club members do NOT have to attend all meetings, the focus is on ‘being there’ to assist our project and service work. This ranges from energetic tasks such as firewood for welfare cases in our communities, through to selling raffle tickets so everyone will find a role in their local Lions Club they can complete within their skill comfort zone and the time they have available.
Our Clubs are a cosmopolitan mix of ages, gender and interests with many Clubs willing to start new groups with a specific interest as a Club Branch. This allows the ‘new Lions’ to have a specific interest or project in mind while still receiving the experienced advice from local Lions and the liability protection of the excellent Lions Clubs International indemnity scheme.
Contact us if you have any questions or would like to see more of what we do.
202M Meeting Dates (to be advised)
District Governor - Leon Downes (Liz)
2025-2026
Lions year 202M Theme: (Building the mighty 202M)
District Governor Leon Adam Downes
Leon Adam Downes is proud to serve as District Governor for the mighty 202M District for the 2024–2025 Lions year. A dedicated Lion with a strong belief in service, community, and leadership, Leon brings energy, vision, and a hands-on approach to his role.
Leon is a proud member of the Waikanae lions club on the Kapiti Coast where he grew up he as a focus on commitment to build stronger clubs, empowering members, and ensuring that Lions remain at the heart of their communities. He values open communication, practical problem-solving, and creating opportunities for all clubs to work together for greater lions impact.
Beyond Lions, Leon is active in local community he has been involved with Waikanae Boating club for a number of years as their rear commodore. He has played Rugby League and a life member of his home club Randwick in Naenae, he has served for 7 years of the board of Wellington Rugby League 3 of those years as Chairman. His leadership style is grounded in collaboration, humour, and a deep respect for the people he serves alongside.
Leon enjoys spending time with his wife Liz, family, and friends, as well as getting involved in community events
As District Governor, Leon’s focus is on Lions clubs, their groth of membership, supporting clubs in meaningful service projects, and strengthening leadership development across the district and beyond. He believes that the power of Lions lies not only in what we do, but in how we inspire others to serve.
Kind Regards
Leon Downes MNZIQS, NZCB, NZIOB
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