We are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to another successful food drive with Te Hono O Ngā Waka. Your time, effort, and aroha have helped ensure our whānau have kai for themselves and their loved ones. Your support and generosity continue to uplift our community in incredible ways.

As funding for food in the community has ended for us this year, we now rely heavily on these events to provide much-needed support. The food drive is a testament to the strength of our community and the manaakitanga we hold for each other.

We hope you all have a safe and joyful holiday season with your loved ones. If you or anyone in the Westland area is in need, please don’t hesitate to reach out. While WestREAP will be closed over the holidays, Te Hono O Ngā Waka will still provide support (excluding statutory holidays or for urgent requests).

Meri Kirihimete me ngā mihi aroha mō te tau hou – Merry Christmas and best wishes for the new year!

Ngā mihi nui,
Te Hono O Ngā Waka

At Te Hono O Ngā Waka, we take immense pride in celebrating the incredible talents and achievements of our team members, and today, we want to shine a spotlight on Stephen. Your unwavering dedication to the world of theatre and your passion for storytelling continue to inspire and amaze us all.

Stephen, watching you on stage was nothing short of breathtaking. Your performance was a testament to your hard work, creativity, and love for the arts. The rangatahi and whānau who attended were buzzing with excitement and pride, witnessing someone they know and respect shine so brightly. You showed them that dreams can be achieved through dedication, and that passion can take us to extraordinary places.

Your talent and enthusiasm have sparked a light in our rangatahi. Seeing you perform has planted seeds of curiosity, creativity, and courage in their hearts. For some, this may be the beginning of their own journey into the arts. For others, it’s a powerful reminder of the endless possibilities that come with pursuing something you truly love.

Theatre has always been a powerful medium for storytelling, connection, and self-expression, and Stephen, you embody all of that and more. Your contribution extends far beyond the stage—it reaches into the lives of those watching, inspiring them to dream bigger and work harder.

From everyone at Te Hono, we want to say thank you. Thank you for sharing your gift with us, for being a role model to our rangatahi, and for reminding us all of the beauty that comes from chasing our passions. We can’t wait to see where this journey takes you next and how it will continue to ripple through our community, inspiring more talent and igniting new flames of creativity.

Stephen, you are amazing, and we are so proud of you. Your light shines bright, and it’s clear that it will continue to illuminate the path for many others to follow. Ngā mihi nui, and kei runga noa atu koe! 🌟

What a way to wrap up the 2025 Waka Ama racing season – Kaiteriteri truly delivered! It’s hard to believe we’ve had three races this year, each more incredible than the last. Reflecting on these experiences, we see not just the thrill of racing but the growth, resilience, and fun that have shaped our rangatahi into a strong and passionate team.

This last race brought a mix of emotions and challenges. From the adrenaline of the starting line to navigating unexpected obstacles, we’ve experienced it all – panic attacks, moments of shock, near hypothermia, and even flipping in the ocean. And then there were the waves. Waves so massive they dwarfed us, reminding us of the power of Tangaroa. But those challenges? They only made the victories sweeter and the memories stronger.

Kaiteriteri’s breathtaking scenery was the perfect backdrop for these adventures. Racing alongside lush green cliffs and golden beaches felt almost surreal – a reminder of how lucky we are to paddle in some of the world’s most beautiful waters. Winning races along the way was the icing on the cake, but the journey itself, with its highs and lows, has been the real treasure.

We laughed, we struggled, and we grew. And while paddling on the lake doesn’t quite compare to the ocean’s dynamic embrace, it’s where we honed our skills and built the foundation for these extraordinary moments.

The growth we’ve seen in our rangatahi this year has been phenomenal. Waka Ama has taught them more than just paddling; it’s taught them teamwork, perseverance, and how to thrive under pressure. These skills extend far beyond the water. Whether it’s tackling school challenges, building confidence, or forming lasting friendships, the lessons learned here will stay with them for life.

We owe a massive shoutout to Hayley for her tireless mahi in making these adventures happen. Her dedication to this kaupapa, organising every trip, and ensuring each race is an experience to remember has been nothing short of incredible. From the logistics to the emotional support, Hayley has been the glue that keeps it all afloat.

As we look ahead to next year, we’re excited to see this space grow even more. The passion our rangatahi have discovered for racing is infectious, and we can’t wait to welcome new paddlers and explore new waters. There’s something truly special about Waka Ama – the connection to our whenua, the challenge of the elements, and the joy of being part of a team.

Here’s to another year of adventures, challenges, and triumphs. Bring on 2026 – we’re ready for whatever is in store! 🛶🌊✨

This week, over 200 passionate and dedicated individuals came together in unity for the Toitū te Tiriti hikoi—also known as the Kill the Bill movement—right here on Te Tai o Poutini. This incredible gathering of Māori and Te Tiriti whānau highlighted the strength, solidarity, and kotahitanga (togetherness) that exist within our community when we stand for what is right. Together, we walked against systemic inequities and called for a better, safer, and more equitable future for all.

The turnout was nothing short of inspiring. Whānau from all walks of life came together with one vision: to honor Te Tiriti o Waitangi and to build a community rooted in justice, equity, and respect. Seeing such a vibrant and diverse group standing shoulder to shoulder, unified in purpose, was a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when we work together for the collective good.

Uplifting Our Whānau, Strengthening Our Place

The hikoi wasn’t just about opposing a bill—it was about challenging the structures and systems that perpetuate racism and inequity. It was about amplifying the voices of those who have been silenced for too long and paving the way for meaningful change. Every step we took together was a step toward a brighter, more inclusive future for our tamariki, mokopuna, and all those who will come after us.

We are reminded that progress doesn’t come from division but from manaakitanga (caring for one another), whanaungatanga (building relationships), and kotahitanga. Together, we can uplift our whānau, our community, and our whenua. Together, we can create a place where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.

The Challenge Ahead

While this hikoi was an incredible moment of unity, it is only the beginning. Real change requires ongoing commitment, courage, and action. We must continue to hold ourselves and others accountable, to educate, to listen, and to advocate for equity at every level. Racism has no place here—it’s time to stand up, speak out, and take action to create a future where everyone can thrive.

As we continue this kaupapa, let us remember the whakataukī:

“Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini.” My strength is not that of an individual, but that of the collective.

This hikoi was a testament to the strength of our collective, the power of our unity, and the shared commitment to make Te Tai o Poutini a place of equity, safety, and mana for all. Let’s keep walking this path together, with aroha, courage, and determination.

Kia Kaha Te Tai o Poutini!

Let’s continue to rise, to stand, and to work together for a better tomorrow. Toitū te Tiriti—because we will settle for nothing less than justice.

The journey to re-establish a Kōhanga Reo in Te Tai o Poutini has been a long and meaningful one, and we are thrilled to see the incredible efforts of our kōhanga whānau as they work tirelessly to bring this dream to life. It has been many years since we had a kōhanga reo here, and the anticipation of a new purpose-built whare at Hokitika School fills our hearts with joy and excitement.

This initiative is more than just a building; it’s a space that will enrich the lives of our mums and pēpi, where our beautiful language and culture will flourish once again. The return of Kōhanga Reo represents a deep reconnection to our roots, our reo, and the dreams our tūpuna held for our mokopuna.

A heartfelt ngā mihi to Miri, Ru, Jade, and Katrina for your unwavering dedication and hard mahi. You have been upskilling yourselves, completing papers, and preparing to lead this kaupapa with mana. Your commitment to ensuring we have trained kaimahi ready for this space is nothing short of inspiring. The knowledge and passion you bring will help create a nurturing and culturally rich environment for our tamariki and whānau.

Next year promises even more growth as we welcome new kaimahi into this kaupapa. Together, we are building a future where our language, tikanga, and values are woven into the fabric of our daily lives.

As we look forward to opening the doors of our new kōhanga reo, we reflect on the importance of this journey—not just for today, but for the generations yet to come. We are reclaiming and revitalizing the treasures of our culture and ensuring that our tamariki grow up with the knowledge and pride of who they are and where they come from.

Thank you again, Miri, Ru, Jade, and Katrina, for leading the way. We can’t wait to watch your progress and stand alongside you as this kaupapa continues to grow. The future is bright for Te Tai o Poutini, and we are ready to roll!

Toitū Te Mokopuna!

On October 24th, a group of 18 rangatahi, primarily from Westland High School, and six kaimahi embarked on an exciting journey to Te Anau, where they proudly represented Te Hono o Nga Waka’s Youth Development Program in the Ki Uta Ki Tai Waka Ama Challenge.

This event marked the second competitive appearance for the youth Waka Ama teams this year. After first taking to the water in Dunedin during the Ice Breaker Challenge in June, they gathered last weekend in Te Anau to participate in this unique challenge. The teams are gearing up to compete again in two weeks at Waka Te Tasman in Kaiteriteri.

In a significant first for Te Tai o Poutini, these rangatahi teams are making history as the inaugural Waka Ama representatives from the West Coast, and their results are cause for celebration. Across several competitive categories, they demonstrated outstanding skill, determination, and teamwork, achieving impressive placements:

- **Kaimahi Open Mixed 5km** - **1st Place**

- **J16 Boys 1.5km** - **1st Place**

- **J16 Girls 1.5km** - **3rd Place**

- **J19 Boys 3km** - **1st Place**

- **J16 Girls 3km** - **3rd Place**

“We are all immensely proud of their achievements, and it's a proud moment for Te Tai o Poutini,” says Hayley from Rangatahi Development. This success highlights the dedication of both the paddlers and the support network that has backed them every step of the way.

Special thanks go to the Ruia Fund, Te Hono o Nga Waka, the Ministry of Youth Development, WestREAP, the whānau, and the wider community for their ongoing support, which has made these accomplishments possible.

Congratulations to all involved, especially our talented young paddlers! We look forward to seeing their continued success in the upcoming event in Kaiteriteri.

Our rangatahi are not just champion paddlers; they are young adventurers discovering the magic of Aotearoa one journey at a time. Recently, their travels took them south to Te Anau, with a breathtaking overnight stop in Wanaka. These trips aren’t just about the waka races—they’re immersive experiences that weave the threads of fun, passion, and discovery.

The journey south was an unforgettable one, as the rangatahi encountered the full range of New Zealand's seasons. Snow, rain, storms, and sunshine greeted them over the three days, with each atua showing its power and beauty. These moments became powerful lessons about resilience and adaptability, showing our rangatahi how nature’s forces mirror the challenges and joys they face in life.

For many, this trip marked their first time this far south. The excitement was palpable, especially at places like Puzzle World, where they bonded through laughter and the shared thrill of navigating new challenges together. Traveling through Wanaka and Te Anau was more than just seeing new places—it was about connecting with each other and with our whenua in a way that deepens their understanding and appreciation for who they are and where they come from.

These journeys are more than just races; they are pathways to new experiences, strengthening their sense of identity and love for exploration. When our rangatahi travel, they gain more than medals; they gain memories, resilience, and a passion that will carry them forward in life. This journey to Te Anau, through all the seasons of the heart and land, is yet another chapter in their growth and inspiration.

Last week, our rangatahi took their passion and energy to the streets for a cause close to our hearts: Gumboot Friday. This event, established by the I Am Hope charity, raises essential funds to support free mental health services for young people. In New Zealand, mental health remains a pressing issue, with many young people unable to access the care they need. Gumboot Friday, with its symbol of gumboots representing trudging through tough times, provides an opportunity for communities to come together and make a real difference.

Our rangatahi embraced the spirit of Gumboot Friday wholeheartedly. They baked up a storm, creating beautifully decorated cupcakes that became an instant hit with the community. With smiles and infectious enthusiasm, they sold the treats on the streets, sharing the message of Gumboot Friday with everyone who stopped by. In the afternoon, they rolled up their sleeves again, this time armed with sponges, soap, and hoses, offering a car wash service to raise even more funds.

The whole day was filled with laughter, team spirit, and the powerful reminder of how much good we can accomplish together. The rangatahi enjoyed every moment, connecting with people, and sharing conversations about the importance of mental health. By the end of the day, they had raised hundreds of dollars, all of which will go directly toward helping young people get the mental health support they need.

This event was not only a great way to contribute to Gumboot Friday but also an empowering experience for our rangatahi, showing them how they can make an impact and support their peers in meaningful ways. Thank you to everyone who bought a cupcake, got their car washed, or simply cheered them on! Your support means everything to us and to the many young people who will benefit from these funds.

Together, we made a difference—one cupcake, one car wash, one smile at a time.

Te Wiki o te Reo Māori holds a special place in our hearts. Each year, we embrace this week as an opportunity to celebrate and honor our reo, our language, which is the heartbeat of our identity and the thread that binds our whakapapa. It’s a time to reaffirm our commitment to revitalising Te Reo Māori and to create spaces where it flourishes for our rangatahi and future generations.

This year, our celebrations involved t-shirt printing, where everyone got to personalize their tees with vibrant designs and affirming messages in Te Reo Māori. It was a powerful way to carry our language on our chests and wear our pride for all to see.

Of course, no celebration would be complete without kai! A trusty sausage sizzle that became a focal point for whānau and friends to gather, share stories, and connect. Breaking bread together, sharing laughs, and enjoying good food remind us of the warmth and manaakitanga central to our culture.

Lastly, waiata, singing our waiata brought a sense of unity and deep pride as we raised our voices in celebration of Te Reo Māori. Waiata has a way of reaching into our souls, connecting us with our tīpuna, and inspiring our tamariki to carry the torch forward.

Te Wiki o te Reo Māori is about more than just celebrating language; it’s about strengthening the foundation of who we are. It’s about giving our rangatahi the chance to embrace our culture, to see Te Reo Māori as an essential part of their lives, and to take pride in carrying it forward. We want our language to be a normal, everyday part of our world—not just during this week but in every interaction, every conversation, every celebration.

This week has reminded us all at Te Hono O Ngā Waka that our reo is a living treasure, and through celebrations like these, we are ensuring its survival and growth for generations to come.

We're thrilled to highlight the fantastic mahi of Tina Tainui, who has been working tirelessly over the last few months to bring smiles and support the oral health of tamariki at Hokitika Primary. Her commitment to this kaupapa has brought new excitement and encouragement to both whānau and tamariki about the importance of healthy dental habits, especially brushing before bed.

Tina has put together thoughtful oral health care packs to make bedtime brushing easier and more fun. Each pack includes an alarm clock set for 7 p.m. as a friendly reminder, a sticker chart to track their brushing routines, and prizes for tamariki who keep up with their nightly brushing. The packs also come with fresh toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss—everything tamariki need for a complete oral hygiene routine. Alongside these tools, Tina has been educating whānau and tamariki on why oral health matters, hoping to reduce the need for emergency dental care down the line.

Oral health is incredibly important, as it affects not only teeth but also overall well-being. Here are some insights on why building strong oral health habits early on can make a difference:

1. Prevention of Tooth Decay and Gum Disease: Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic conditions in tamariki. Regular brushing, especially at night, removes food particles and plaque that can cause cavities. Good habits can prevent gum disease, which affects oral health and has links to other health issues.

2. Healthier Smiles and Confidence: Tamariki with healthy teeth often have more confidence and comfort in social situations. Preventing cavities and bad breath can help boost their self-esteem and encourage positive social interactions.

3. Education on Sugar and Diet: Tina’s approach doesn’t just focus on brushing but also educates tamariki about diet. Sugary foods and drinks can erode teeth over time, so understanding the impact of their choices is key. Tina's packs come with fun ways to learn about choosing tooth-friendly snacks.

4. Early Intervention Saves Pain and Money: By encouraging regular brushing and check-ups, Tina's work helps reduce the need for urgent dental procedures. Good oral health routines can prevent severe dental issues, minimizing the need for emergency care and costly procedures in the future.

5. Building Lifelong Habits: Tina’s mahi teaches tamariki the importance of routines and how taking care of themselves can lead to a healthier, happier life. When tamariki learn to brush and floss properly, they're building habits that will last well beyond childhood.

Tina’s mahi is an inspiring example of dedication and creativity. By making dental care accessible, educational, and fun, she is helping our tamariki form habits that will serve them for a lifetime. Her work is a powerful reminder of the positive impact that targeted health initiatives can have on our community’s future.

Well done, Tina, for your tireless commitment to the well-being of our tamariki! Your mahi truly makes a difference.

We recently celebrated an incredible whānau day, with over 100 whānau joining us at the Boys Brigade Hall in Hokitika! Despite the wet weather, our team was ready, turning the hall into an indoor haven for family fun. With five bouncy castles, it felt like inflatable world had come to the coast, bringing non-stop excitement for the tamariki.

Alongside the bouncy fun, we had clowns, biscuit decorating, nail painting, coloring stations, face painting, and even haircuts to keep everyone entertained. The hot pulled pork buns and classic sausage sizzle were crowd favorites, keeping everyone warm and well-fed.

A massive thank you to all who helped bring this event to life. From the volunteers to the organizers and every whānau who turned up to make the day special—it was truly a team effort and a memorable day for all involved. Looking forward to more gatherings like these!

In a groundbreaking initiative, Te Whatu Ora and Reo Māori Mai have joined forces to deliver a professional development program centered around equity in healthcare. This program is more than just training—it’s a dedicated effort to foster a culture of inclusiveness and continuous improvement within healthcare, ensuring services meet the unique needs of Māori and rural communities.

This Equity Professional Development initiative offers a significant opportunity for kaimahi (staff) to connect with a supportive network focused on understanding and tackling the barriers to equitable health outcomes across Te Tai Poutini. With a blend of in-depth learning and hands-on application, this program empowers healthcare professionals to lead system design changes that prioritize whānau-centered, culturally appropriate, and effective care.

Over several months, participants will gain essential insights and skills, including:

- Understanding Barriers to Equity: Participants will deepen their awareness of the obstacles Māori and rural whānau face in accessing equitable healthcare, enabling them to develop strategies to address these challenges effectively.

- Empowered Equity Conversations: With newfound confidence, participants will engage in constructive discussions on equity with their teams and leadership, fostering meaningful and lasting change.

- Supportive Network of Kaimahi: This program creates a network of like-minded kaimahi dedicated to building a more inclusive and impactful healthcare system for whānau, uniting their efforts and amplifying their impact.

Through this collaborative journey, Te Whatu Ora and Reo Māori Mai are championing a future where healthcare in Te Tai Poutini is grounded in cultural integrity, inclusivity, and equity, with the voices and needs of whānau at the forefront. Together, we are paving the way for a healthcare system that honors and uplifts the community it serves.