Celebrating our local Tamariki with a Whānau Fun Day in Motueka

First established in 2021, Te Kotahi o Te Tauihu Charitable Trust was set up by eight iwi of Te Tauihu o Te Waka-a-Māui (top of the South Island). The team work hard to advance health and wellbeing in the community, alleviate poverty, ensuring adequate food and housing is available, and promote education and skills for the benefits of the district and its people.

Te Kotahi o Te Tauihi use a kaupapa Maōri approach, to work with whānau Māori, government agencies, education and work providers, and NPOs to ensure existing health and wellbeing services for the community and that no whānau is left behind.

In celebration of local Tamariki, Te Kotahi o Te Tauihu has joined up with hauora (Māori philosophy) agencies to host a Whānau Fun Day especially for Tamariki on Sunday, August 27, at the Motueka Recreation Centre Stadium on Old Wharf Road. The event kicks off at 10.30am and goes through until 2.30pm.

Operations manager Dr Lorraine Eade, says the team will hold health and wellness checks for both tamariki and their parents, share traditional Māori birthing knowledge, hapūtanga care and free childhood immunisations.

“This is a chance for everyone to come together with whānau and enjoy lots of excitement, during a fun-filled day, in a hauora based environment. Whānau will be able to take part in old school egg and spoon races, there will be a games and play area with bouncy castles, and there will also be loads of giveaways and prizes throughout the day. The Tamariki Whānau Day provides a chance for tamariki and their families to connect in the spirit of Matariki.” The event is hosted by the Charitable Trust alongside the support of Nelson Bays Primary Health, Te Piki Oranga, Te Whatu Ora and Te Awhina Marae.

For more information about how the team can help, visit: Te Kotahi o Te Tauihu Charitable Trust. “We can support whānau with a range of things, from emergency kai to helping families deal with agencies or sort bills… all you need to do is get in touch. We provide whanaungatanga and manaakitanga for whānau who don’t have that or who might just need a little extra support.”

Just give them a call on 0800 514 358 (9am to 4pm, Monday to Friday), or drop an email at awhi@kotahitehoe.org.nz.

A day marked by vibrant yellow blooms, Daffodil Day on Friday 25th August stands as a powerful symbol of hope in the face of darkness. The simple daffodil not only signals the arrival of spring and new life but also serves as the perfect emblem for cancer organisations worldwide. It is a beacon of optimism for all those affected by cancer, embodying the promise of renewal and strength amidst adversity.

Nelson Tasman Cancer Society, a charity trust dedicated to supporting individuals and families impacted by cancer, wholeheartedly embraces the daffodil's significance. The daffodil is synonymous with hope and holds a profound connection with the journey of those facing cancer.

Michelle Hunt, the centre manager of Cancer Society Nelson Tasman, says that with around 500 clients annually, half of whom are newly diagnosed, the local impact is significant. Funds generated locally from Daffodil Day directly serve the local community, assisting with support services, including counselling, and providing practical aid such as petrol and food vouchers. The local not-for-profit organisation holds a range of events throughout the year, including the Heritage Homes Tour on April 30, and an annual Charity Ball on June 24, however, the flagship fundraiser, now into its 33rd year, is Daffodil Day. “The generosity we receive from numerous individuals, businesses, and countless volunteers, during these events play an instrumental role in making them an overwhelming success.” Every dollar donated helps make a difference in the lives of people with cancer in the Nelson and Tasman region. This ensures that expert care, free nursing and counselling support, transportation to treatment and accommodation for those living far from medical support, is always available for people facing cancer in our community. “Donations protect future generations through prevention programmes and life-saving research. Join our mission to reduce cancer rates and the devastating impact it has on communities. We also work to provide patient support and information, accommodation, research and health promotion. We receive no government funding, so your donations are a very im- portant part of our fundraising.”

A range of Cancer Society merchandise is available online including sunscreen, clothing, pens, lapels and earrings, and contributions to Cancer Society Nelson Tasman can be made through donation boxes, online or on collection day. For more information visit www.cancernelson.org.nz The Cancer Society Nelson Tasman team are always on the lookout for volunteers, says Michelle. “We have all sorts of ways in which people can help, including volunteer drivers, administration and reception, annual fundraising events and help with specific projects. Please contact our Volunteer Coordinator for more information on (03) 539 1137 or 027 236 7583. “Cancer doesn’t stop, so we won't either.” Look out for Daffodil Day street collectors on Friday 25 August. Daffodil Day donations can also be made at any ANZ branch, anywhere a daffodil day QR code is displayed, or online.