In these challenging times, examples of the community’s desire to reach out, support one another, and to connect have been unmistakable. It is this spirit of connection that will permeate this year’s Well Wāhine Week.
Between 8 – 19 March, providers will deliver free sessions for women, girls, and gender diverse people to come together and prioritise their wellbeing. Around 50 activities span the calendar, ranging from seminars about nutrition and women’s health, to physical activities like tramping, yoga, and rugby. The sessions welcome newcomers to safe, inclusive, and fun environments.
“One of the providers I spoke to mentioned how the communications disruptions we faced after the Cyclone created an acute desire for people to see their friends face to face, particularly by their older players,” said Sarah Pocock, Active Communities Advisor at Sport Gisborne Tairāwhiti. “We hope that this year’s calendar of events will allow members of our community to carve out even an hour for themselves.”
“We are looking for ways to support our hardest-hit communities with bespoke Well Wāhine events when the time is right,” said Ms Pocock. “We are in contact with community members so that they can drive the timelines for this. If there are providers keen to add support to future rural and Coast events when they happen, contact us as Sport Gisborne Tairāwhiti.”
Cost can be a significant barrier when it comes to participation. To overcome that, Sport Gisborne Tairāwhiti will ensure that all activities during the 12 days are free. Bring a mate or attend alone, these sessions are for everyone.
“Some events will have limited numbers and will require registration, and some will require more time to lock in their location,” said Helayna Ruifrok, Active Communities Advisor at Sport Gisborne Tairāwhiti. “We recommend people check with the website for the most up-to-date event information.” Providers who have an activity that they’d like to add to the event should reach out to the team via the Sport Gisborne Tairāwhiti website.
To learn more about the kaupapa, view the full calendar of events and to register, click here.
Check out the calendar, grab your whānau and try it, love it, be it!
