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.
