In a heartening display of community spirit, a collaboration between Community Connect, Touch New Zealand, Igniting Potential in Rangatahi (IPIR), Sport Northland, and Kaikohe Rugby Fields Sports Club has marked the second annual Kaikohe Ki o Rahi Module event series after resounding success in 2023. 

An especially inspiring aspect of this event, was the involvement of young tamariki from Kaikohe, empowered through the Community Connect IPIR programme aimed at empowering Rangatahi aged 15 – 24 to develop confidence and transferable skills that support career opportunities and hauora.  

These enthusiastic youngsters took on the roles of referees and coordinators, actively shaping the event and gaining valuable experience in the process. They managed the Ki-o-Rahi fields weekly, including setup, refereeing, food preparation, and prizes. As a token of appreciation for their dedication, Community Connect rewarded them with merchandise and a koha for each youngster, recognizing their invaluable contributions. Community Connect also provided kai, prizes and resources for participants.  

Community support for this kaupapa was also seen through other providers getting behind this event. Touch New Zealand contributed prizes and Sport Northland kaimahi supported with equipment and assistance. 

A significant highlight of the Kaikohe Ki o Rahi Module was the support from Kaikohe Rugby Fields Sports Club. They generously allowed the marking of their rugby fields for the event and even provided access to the lights for the whānau grade, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for all participants and spectators.

 

Looking ahead, the vision for Term 3 2024 is to expand the event further. Plans are underway to incorporate additional grades, including Year 3&4 and Year 7-13 teams to be able to cater to a wider range of participants.  

Building on this success, discussions with KC Maaka from Ngati Hine, have paved the way for a future collaborative effort. KC Maaka has graciously agreed to organise the Moerewa Ki o Rahi event in Term 2, allowing for a seamless transition of energy and participation into the Kaikohe Ki o Rahi Module in Term 4 2024. This collaboration fosters a journey of camaraderie and celebration across communities. 

Story Written by Sport Northland Healthy Active Learning team.