New Waka Boosts Community Spirit for Mataatua Sports Trust!

New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT) has awarded a grant of $20,521 to Mataatua Sports Trust for the purchase of a one-person and a six-person waka, aimed at increasing water safety and ensuring the expansion and sustainability of their waka ama programme.

Kaiwhakahaere Hemi Wahapango expresses, “More and more Whakatane students and community groups are getting involved in our waka programme. We needed additional equipment to meet this growing demand. With these two new waka, we’ll be able to provide a high-quality experience for all participants and encourage more local involvement. This growing cultural awareness, together with learning about the power of working together as a team (kotahitanga and whanaungatanga), has a hugely positive impact on social well-being and cohesion in our community.’’

The waka programme offers school groups and community organisations the chance to learn vital skills such as paddling, flipping, and water safety practices. It also educates participants about the natural environment and historical Māori sites.

Chairperson Chris Marjoribanks adds, “Mataatua Sports Trust promotes active and healthy lifestyles through traditional Māori sports. Our programmes have seen significant growth, with fifteen kura currently registered.

Wahapango adds “Paddling together in a waka develops teamwork and communication skills, fostering unity within the group. This unique experience promotes physical fitness and appreciation for Māori culture, contributing positively to social well-being.”

Local participant Te Mauri Spencer shares “The Kaiako make it a fun learning environment.” Fellow participant Annikka Schäfer adds “Being on the waka is fun, but the tikanga and history are what I find most fascinating.”

Ben Hodges, NZCT’s GM of Grants, Marketing, and Communications adds “Waka ama serves as a powerful means of connecting and uniting whanau. We're grateful for the responsible gaming fundraising partnership we share with Cobb & Co Whakatane which made this grant possible.”