In an initiative aimed at fostering unity and creating valuable opportunities, Sport Waitākere, in collaboration with SMC Events and funded by Tū Manawa, held the Weetbix Try Challenge on the 14th of November 2023. The event marked the first-ever gathering of six bilingual units from West Auckland schools, including Henderson North Primary, Prospect School, Rānui School, Western Heights School, Birdwood School, and Te Kurā o Pātiki (Rosebank School).

The Kāhui Māori Weetbix Try Challenge was more than a sports event, it was as a symbol of collaboration, cultural celebration, and the potential for future partnerships among West Auckland's Māori Tamariki.

The strategic vision behind this initiative was to establish enduring relationships with bilingual units, fostering an environment where collaboration and mutual support become intrinsic. Sport Waitākere has worked with a collaborative approach with the units to envision a future where these units not only competed together on the field but also worked in unison to create a more connected and empowered community.

“Ko te reo Māori te mea tuatahi anō ia ra, ia ra, ia ra mo ngā tamariki mokopuna o te kura nei”.

Being able to speak te reo Māori everyday is the most important thing for the tamariki at our school”. -Henderson North.

At the core of this event was the aspiration to instil a profound sense of Tūrangawaewae. The Kāhui Māori Weetbix Try Challenge sought to inspire pride in identity and cultivate a supportive community spirit that extended beyond school affiliations.

“He mea parekareka ki ngā tamariki, e harikoa ana ngā tamariki, he pai hoki mo te Hauora”.
“The kids really enjoy it, they're happy and it's great for their Hauora”. - Ranui

As the tamariki enjoyed running through the course and had fun with Taonga Tākaro (delivered by He Oranga Poutama & Sport Waitākere), it became evident that this event was a significant milestone, laying the groundwork for continued collaboration among West Auckland's bilingual units. The Kāhui Māori Weetbix Try Challenge was not just a one-off event but a strategic move toward breaking down barriers and embracing a shared heritage.

Article added: Thursday 14 December 2023