Countdown on for Hiwa

MEDIA RELEASE - JUNE 8, 2022

Te Kotahi o Te Tauihu Trust and Māori health providers from across the rohe are coming together to celebrate Matariki this month, hosting three family-friendly events across Te Tauihu (the top of the South Island).

The events, named Hiwa, will be held in Motueka on June 19, Wairau on June 23 and Whakatū on June 25.

Dr Lorraine Eade, Pouwhakahaere Rauemi at Te Kotahi o Te Tauihu Trust, said after a tough couple of years it was hoped the events would provide some fun for families across the rohe while also maintaining an important focus on hauora, or health.

“All of us have been under pressure in some way or another since the start of the pandemic and we’re in a state of overload. This is about taking a lighter approach, providing some fun while also offering opportunities for whānau to be connected to the right support to achieve their goals in the coming year.”

Hiwa takes its name from the youngest whetū in the Matariki cluster, Hiwa-i-te-rangi, which is connected to the promise of a prosperous season. ‘Hiwa’ means ‘vigorous of growth’ and ‘I te rangi’ means ‘in the sky’.

“Hiwa-i-te-rangi helps us recognise our hopes for the new year and encourages us to hold on to our goals and actively seek out opportunities to see them realised,” says Eade.

“These events are about looking forward, having the opportunity, and of course, simply coming together.”

Māori health providers, including Te Piki Oranga and Nelson Marlborough Health’s Te Waka Hauora team will be there on the day, alongside Māori businesses, kai stalls, local performers, kapa haka groups and others working to support whānau.

“We have lots of fun stuff lined up for the tamariki – superheroes, Disney Princesses, games, bouncy castles. There’s also live entertainment and plenty of kai.

“And for those who are time-poor, it will also be a great chance to get that check-up or flu vaccine you have been meaning to get done.”

Tell your whānau, bring the kids – Hei reira!