Author: Tracey Harkess

Tāne Tū, Tāne Ora took over the weekend, with fourteen activities delivered across three days. All designed to support the wellbeing of tāne through connection, movement, and accessible pathways to better health.

From workouts, jiu-jitsu, and surfing to relaxed sauna sessions and weightlifting, the kaupapa offered something for every tāne. Across the weekend, participants had the chance to show up in their own way, try new activities, and connect with others in a positive environment.

“We are grateful to everyone who backed this kaupapa tuatahi” said Whiti Ora Tairāwhiti Kaiārahi Hapori Wade Manson.

“Our supporters, providers, and participants helped create welcoming spaces for tāne to be themselves and enjoy time together. Watching rangatahi jump into jiu-jitsu and seeing tāne try other activities for the first time showed the value of giving people positive opportunities to connect. I am excited for what next year might bring. The momentum is growing, and our providers are already coming up with new ideas for their own programmes.”

Organisers say the first-year response shows there is a real appetite for creating regular spaces where tāne can prioritise their wellbeing in ways that feel comfortable, inclusive, and grounded.

“It was really good to see dedicated spaces for men, with different options to connect through fun and healthy activities. It created a relaxed environment where guys could show up, move, and connect without pressure, which made the whole weekend feel really positive.” said SOL Fitness Owner & Coach, Jorge Buelna.

The response from the community showed just how valuable dedicated spaces are for tāne in our region. A strong foundation and excitement for what comes next

“This year’s Tāne Tū, Tāne Ora Wellness Weekend was an inspiring reflection of what happens when our community leads the way in strengthening the wellbeing of our men.” said Hikitia! Tāne Ora Manager Willis Tamatea.

“The energy, the brotherhood, and the commitment shown by our tāne and their whānau created a powerful space for learning and growth. It was more than an event, it was a movement toward growing better men for Tairāwhiti.”

“We saw tāne step forward with courage, embrace positive change, and uplift each other through kōrero and shared experiences.”

“The weekend highlighted the strength we have when we come together with purpose and pride. These learnings, insights, and connections are already shaping how we’ll grow this kaupapa even further next year, stronger, bolder, and even more community inspired.”

The success of the Tāne Tū, Tāne Ora weekend has sparked more conversations about bringing the kaupapa back in 2026. Whiti Ora Tairāwhiti and Hikitia! Tāne Ora are committed to continuing the momentum and keeping the kaupapa growing.

Overall Sportsperson, Alicia Hoskin, pictured with naming sponsor, Bronwyn Kay and Jake Stevens from The Real Estate Agents and Bronwyn Kay.

Congratulations to all that were nominated, selected as finalists and to the winners.

The Real Estate Agents and Bronwyn Kay Sportsperson – Alicia Hoskin

Trust Tairāwhiti Sportsman – Oska Smith

Gisborne District Council Sportswoman – Alicia Hoskin

Trust Tairāwhiti Junior Sportsman – Maia Campbell

Whiti Ora Tairāwhiti Junior Sportswoman – Hinekahukura Brooking

Trust Tairāwhiti Master Sportsperson – Emily Gillies

Turanga Health Whaikaha Award – Jack Adams

Enterprise Motor Group Sports Team – Kaiarahi Toa

Whiti Ora Tairāwhiti Junior Sports Team – Midway U19 Women

BDO Coach – Arna Majstrovic

Rochdale Advisory Group Official – Amber Church

74 Grey Street Club – Gisborne Boardriders

Pak n Save Community Impact – Gisborne Boardriders/Ngati Porou Boardriders

The Real Estate Agents and Bronwyn Kay Event Excellence – Surf Lifesaving NZ

Craigs IP Volunteer Award – Alice and Ken Houkamau

Craigs IP Volunteer Award – Albie Nepia

Graham and Dobson Services to Sport

Annette Kingi

Allen Hurne

Krissy Hohepa

Cherry Henry

Inducted into the The Turanga FM Tairāwhiti Legends of Sport were:

Liz Thompson

Kiwi Campbell

This year, a new kaupapa in Tairāwhiti will celebrate men’s wellbeing, connection, and community, Tāne Tū, Tāne Ora. 

A collaboration between Whiti Ora Tairāwhiti and Hikitia! Tāne Ora, the event dedicates a weekend to create safe, inclusive and supportive spaces that welcome tāne, and all who identify as male. The heart of Tāne Tū, Tāne Ora lies in the belief that when men stand strong together, in connection, purpose, and openness, they thrive, and so do their whānau and communities. 

The event will take place Friday 21 to Sunday 23 November 2025, with activities and gatherings happening across Tairāwhiti. 

Throughout the weekend, local providers, clubs, and organisations will host free activities designed to support men’s wellbeing. From saunas and surfing sessions to different types of fitness classes, Fast 5 netball, and parkour, there will be something for everyone. 

“Across Aotearoa, more men are starting to open up, checking in after training, talking with mates, or being present for their whānau” said Whiti Ora Tairāwhiti Kaiārahi Hapori Wade Manson. 

“This shift toward connection is powerful, and Tāne Tū, Tāne Ora celebrates that change by strengthening the spaces where it can grow.” 

“A huge mihi to the providers for jumping on board and supporting the kaupapa, without them it wouldn’t be possible” 

This kaupapa is about visibility, safety, and connection for tāne across the region, inspired by the intent of Movember and International Men’s Day. 

Hikitia! Tāne Ora Manager, Willis Tamatea, says the kaupapa speaks to a deeper movement already underway in the region. 

“When tāne rise, so too does the collective wellbeing of our whānau and communities. This kaupapa goes beyond activities, it’s about restoring belonging, affirming identity, and cultivating the courage to be real with one another.” 

“Tāne Tū, Tāne Ora reminds us that prevention begins with connection and wellbeing is not an individual pursuit but a shared responsibility, built together, shoulder to shoulder.” 

Together, Whiti Ora Tairāwhiti and Hikitia! Tāne Ora aim to raise awareness, encourage kōrero, and support communities to celebrate the strength, honesty, and openness of tāne. This kaupapa focuses on building health-supportive environments where kōrero flows easily, belonging grows through shared activity, and support feels natural and mana-enhancing. 

A calendar of events and registration details will be promoted on the Whiti Ora Tairāwhiti and Hikitia! Tāne Ora Facebook pages. 

The iconic Titirangi Mt. Everest Challenge is back, and this year it’s bigger, brighter, and easier to join than ever before. The challenge starts Monday 6 October, with all funds raised going directly to the Gisborne Cancer Society to support bowel cancer awareness and services in our community.

The challenge invites participants to walk, cycle or run Titirangi maunga as many times as it takes to equal the height of Mt. Everest, 8,848 metres. It’s a test of endurance, determination, and community spirit, all while contributing to a cause that touches countless whānau.

“Now in its 13th year, the Titirangi Mt Everest Challenge continues to inspire both new and returning participants. Whether it’s one climb or hundreds, every ascent is a personal milestone and part of a collective journey that creates something very special in our community. The challenge is open to all, with the option to climb Titirangi or convert the height of any local maunga. We are excited to bring the 2025 event to life,” said Whiti Ora Tairāwhiti Event and Talent Lead Debbie Hutchings.

This year, Whiti Ora Tairāwhiti are excited to launch a refreshed website designed to make it even easier for climbers to log their progress, track achievements, and share their journey. Whether you’re tackling the challenge solo, with whānau, friends, or workmates, getting involved has never been simpler.

We’d like to give a special mihi to Ngāti Oneone, the mana whenua of Titirangi, for their ongoing support for this event. We also acknowledge with gratitude the backing from Sean and Fiona Shivnan, Gisborne District Council, and Cancer Society Gisborne East Coast.

So, lace up your shoes, rally your crew, and get ready to climb for a cause. Together, we can raise awareness, support those affected, and make every step count.

Registrations are open. Register here.

Donate here to East Coast Cancer Society.

The stage is set for The Real Estate Agents and Bronwyn Kay Sports Awards, with Whiti Ora Tairāwhiti delighted to announce the finalists. This year’s finalists represent the very best of the region’s sporting talent and dedication, showcasing excellence both on and off the field. 

“Having received a record number of nominations across all categories, the calibre of talent, achievements, and contributions has been outstanding” said Whiti Ora Tairāwhiti Event and Talent Lead Debbie Hutchings. 

“Bringing this success together highlights Tairāwhiti as a region of sporting excellence, from grassroots through to the international stage. We are delighted to announce these finalists to our community and look forward to celebrating the winners in November.”  

From rising stars to selfless volunteers, the finalists reflect the passion, determination, and teamwork that make sport such an important part of life in our region. The finalists for 2025 are: 

“We’re proud to recognise the incredible athletes nominated as finalists this year.” said Bronwyn Kay and Ben Robertson of The Real Estate Agents. 

“Your passion, perseverance, and performance inspire all of us. Congratulations to everyone involved, you are all winners in our eyes.”  

In addition to the 14 categories, three prestigious awards will be announced on the evening including Overall Sportsperson Award, Volunteer Award and Legends of Sport. 

Set for Friday 14 November at The Vines, the Awards are ready to bring the sporting community together. Guests can look forward to an evening packed with inspiring stories, delicious kai, entertainment, and the chance to honour those who give their all for sport in Tairāwhiti.  

The Awards wouldn’t be possible without the generous backing of local businesses. Their sponsorship ensures our athletes, coaches, and volunteers are recognised on stage, and their support speaks to the strong community spirit.