Huaki
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HUAKI
“To bring to Light”
Edition 8
Friday, May 31, 2024
Sports Facility ili Papa Hawaiki Continues to Spark Future Opportunities in Kaikohe Community
Situated in the heart of Te Tai Tokerau, Kaikohe is a town familiar with economic challenges yet kept afloat by a resilient community. For many years Kaikohe has had limited job opportunities, and a lack of resources, especially for its youth. However, Papa Hawaiki, a modern sports venue, has emerged as a beacon of hope and progress, bringing tangible positive changes since its recent opening.
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ince its launch, Papa Hawaiki has become a focal point for Kaikohe’s community, offering a variety of activities regardless of the weather. Delwyn Rameka, known affectionately as Mama Del within the community, noted, “We’ve utilised the facilities for basketball competitions, USA training camps, and youth programmes through Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services. The venue’s top-tier amenities include the finest flooring in New Zealand.” It serves as a vital catalyst for youth engagement and community development. Activities like Above the Rim, Turbo Touch, Netball, and potential future Kapahaka
performances can and do thrive within its walls, benefiting from Papa Hawaiki’s resources. Sports is not just about fitness; it’s about fostering leadership, creativity, and strategic thinking among our youth. These activities provide a platform for young people to learn important life skills, develop resilience, and cultivate a sense of belonging within the community.
mobilised community support. “The community was actively involved,” Mama Del emphasised. She spoke in reference to the rising numbers of youth in the area going astray and ending up in the Youth Justice system. “Tamariki in sports, keeps them out of courts.” Looking ahead, Mama Del believes the enduring benefits of Papa Hawaiki extend far beyond sports. She envisions the potential for employment opportunities, including a youth space, a café, a daycare, and a gymnasium. Benefitting economic growth within the community.
Major events, such as the upcoming women’s masters softball NZ tournament, are expected to attract visitors and revenue to Kaikohe, further invigorating the local economy. “Some of our kids have never had the opportunity to experience a facility like this,” Mama Del reflected. “Now, they have a place where their dreams can take flight.” Papa Hawaiki continues to stand as a testament to what a community can accomplish when united by a shared vision of potential and progress.
Additionally, Papa Hawaiki has the potential to host future events, reducing the need for residents to travel elsewhere. Tiare Otene, former CEO of Te Kotahitanga e Mahi Kaha Trust, secured funding for Papa Hawaiki through the Provincial Growth Fund. Recognising the youth’s needs, Otene
When a life is lost on our roads, tears are cried by whānau and friends.
To our Earth Mother Papatūānuku That is One Tear Too Many – Kotahi Roimata Rawa