29 May Wainuiomata News

By Frank Neill

The Wainuiomata Lions Rugby League team are the 2024 Hutt Valley Sports Team of the Year.

The Gillies Group Team of the Year cup was presented to the Lions CoCaptains John Tanana WharepapaRawiri and Ulai Oti-Lahood at the awards ceremony, held at the Walter Nash Centre, on 23 May. continued on page 2.

Lions Co-Captains John Tanana Wharepapa-Rawiri (left) and Ulai OtiLahood just after they were presented the cup for Team of the Year by Gillies Group CEO Malcolm Gillies

(centre).

Photo: Brady Dyer Photography.

How

Lions roared their way to victory

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Continued from page 1

“The spotlight shone brightly on the Wainuiomata Lions as they played their [2023] Grand Final at Rugby League Park in style,” the Lions citations says.

“With fervent determination and unwavering grit, the Lions roared their way to victory in the Premier Men’s Grand Final, clinching a hard-fought triumph over the Porirua Vikings with a final score of 22-18.

“It was a fitting crescendo to a season marked by the Lions’ unwavering commitment and stellar performance.

“Throughout the season, the Wainuiomata Lions exhibited the true spirit of rugby league, showcasing their skill, teamwork, and resilience on the field.

“Led by exemplary leadership and guided by a collective drive for success, they overcame formidable opponents and conquered adversity to emerge as champions.

“This victory not only crowns their successful season but also underscores the indomitable spirit of the Wainuiomata Lions, a club that continues to develop greatness and is revered as a truly formidable force,” the citation says.

“To come away with the award was really awesome,” the Lions Coach Jimmy Samu says.

“It was quite a surprise really, to be honest, because we were not even aware we had been nominated” until they received notification from Hutt Valley Sports Awards.

“We were really stoked.

“We were really happy to come away with the award.

“We would like to acknowledge the community support for the Lions, and especially those who have put in so much time and sacrifice,”

Jimmy says.

“Our success last year was the culmination of a three-year plan.”

That plan included allowing the players to

Lions just after they won the

understand the history of the club and honour those who had gone before, as well as train and prepare for the matches.

“I would like to make a special mention of Bill Sharp and Kara Puketapu, two Wainuiomata Rugby League greats who have now passed away,” Jimmy says.

The Lions dedicated their Grand Final victory to the Te ti Awa leader Dr Ihakara Porutu (Kara) Puketapu, who passed away in July 2023.

Dr Puketapu played a significant leadership role with the Wainuiomata Rugby League Club.

During his leadership Wainuiomata was promoted from the second to the first division, won seven Wellington Championships, played in four national finals and won three national titles.

“He laid the platform for our club to rise and get where it is now,” Jimmy says.

The Lions had earlier dedicated their 2023 season to former club great Bill Sharp.

Bill became involved with the club while he

was teaching Physical Education at Wainuiomata College. He served the club as a trainer for the Lions, helping the team win two national rugby league titles.

Bill helped generations of Wainuiomata sports people to reach the top, including a number of All Blacks and Rugby League stars. Bill passed away in October 2022.

The Lions had to make a second half comeback to win the 2023 title and the Appleton Shield.

The Porirua Vikings led the match 12-10 at half time.

The Lions scored three second half tries to outscore the Vikings by 12 points to six.

John Tahana Wharepapa-Rawiri was outstanding in the match and was named the final’s most valuable player.

John scored a hat trick of tries. He also made a major break, beating defender after defender as he ran for more than half the length of the field before passing to Regan Hauwaho, who went on to score a try.

The Wainuiomata

2023 Grand Final. Photo: Six One Creative.

Former Kiwis visit Wainuiomata Intermediate school

Former Kiwi Rugby League player Paul Whatuira visited Wainuiomata Intermediate School on 23 May.

A former pupil at the school, Paul is the founder of Internal Strength – He mana a roto and visited to deliver a programme aimed at building self confidence in rangatahi.

Paul brought fellow Kiwi team mates Shontayne Hape and Ruben Wiki with him to share their stories and motivation with the group.

After being welcomed with a stirring p whiri, former Kiwi Captain Ruben spoke about facing your fears, being accountable to yourself, and about setting goals.

A dual international, having represented New Zealand in both Rugby Union and Rugby League, Shontayne spoke about creating a comfort zone, having a plan B and having a network of people you can talk to if things go off script.

After some team building games, double Rugby League Grand Final winner Paul spoke about mindfulness, having pride in where you come from and how to ask for help if you need it.

Students shared their goals and planned pathways to achieve them.

“It is always good to get in people from the valley who have been successful in their

chosen field,” Wainuiomata Intermediate School Principal Craig Sharp said.

“It reminds our students that being from Wainuiomata is enough and what we achieve is only limited by our own actions”.

“I liked that Ruben Wiki said ‘hard work beats talent’, because we can all work hard, student Boston Maxwell said.

“It was awesome to be able to play the games with some league legends,” Rico TeIwimate, who is also a student, said The session finished with certificates and prizes and Shontayne Hape reminding students that as a M ori Rugby League junior selector he would be looking out for them at tournaments this year.

Regional rates rise of 20.56% planned

By Frank Neill

A general rates increase of 20.56% will be considered by Greater Wellington Regional Council at its meeting on 11 June.

This follows a recommendation by the council’s Long Term Plan (LTP) Committee made at its meeting on 23 May.

The committee’s decision was ,made following five weeks of public consultation and three days of public hearings. Despite the LTP Committee developing its 2024-34 Long Term Plan under difficult financial circumstances it had managed to balance those pressures with delivering a

vision for an extraordinary region, with a thriving environment, connected communities and a resilient future, the council’s Chair Daran Ponter says.

“Like all councils in Aotearoa New Zealand, we’ve been hit by double-digit increases in our insurance premiums and rising inflation costs.

“However, we never lost sight of the work needed to keep our region fit for the future.

“The top of our to do list was a future-proofed public transport network and doing the groundwork to be well prepared for extreme weather events.

“We are committed to continuing to deliver our core services well and, in some instances,

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we’re increasing our investment to make improvements.”

Cr Ponter says that he is looking forward to the council meeting on 11 June when councillors will confirm final changes to the LTP ahead of the formal adoption of the 2024-34 LTP on 27 June.

“This has been an outstanding process, led by a committee of Greater Wellington Councillors and six mana whenua representatives, and informed by quality public submissions and participation.

“I want to thank everyone who has taken part to help guide what’s important for us to focus on for the next 10 years in our fantastic region,” Cr Ponter says.

Great market

The Wainuiomata Community Market on 25 May raised money for Wainuiomata Intermediate School.

The koha from stallholders raised $180, which is being donated to the school.

The market was very successful judging by posts on social media.

“Lovely markets. Well done to all involved,” one post said.

“Another good day,” another post said.

Matariki celebration

A celebration of Matariki comes to Queen Street from Thursday 27 to Saturday 29 June.

Ko Pūanga rāua ko Matariki Hiwa i te Rangi 2024 will feature a wide variety of activities.

These include: tamariki kapa haka, kaumatua huihui, entertainment, kids activities, a rangatahi workshop, mirimiri and a $10 hangi.

Good save by Fire Brigade

By Frank Neill

The Wainuiomata Volunteer Fire Brigade executed a very good save on 26 April.

The brigade was called at 6:39pm to a fire that had started from a stove. By the time the firefighters arrived the fire had spread into the wall cavity. The brigade’s rapid response limited the damage, and the brigade had the fire out in around 10 minutes.

As a result there was not much damage, although the wall lining had to be removed.

The brigade is also alerting people visiting its Facebook page that with winter arriving it is important to remember to keep all household items “a metre from the heater”.

This message is on a post wishing everyone a happy Samoan Language Week.

During the visit to Wainuiomata Intermediate School (from left) Shontayne Hape, Boston Maxwell, Ruben Wiki, Paul Whatuira and Levi Whatuira. Photo Supplied.

Brilliant Irish music evening

The well known Irish band Shindig performed to a sold out audience at the Pioneer Church on 24 May. Guests were entertained with Irish folk songs, original compositions plus other songs which they were invited to participate in and did so with huge enthusiasm. The evening concluded with the usual delicious supper. Those attending agreed that it was a “brilliant evening”.

Trades&

Celebrating Samoan Language Week

By Frank Neill

Mila’s Books is celebrating Samoan Language Week, which runs from 26 May to 1 June, with a Duffy Books in Schools tour of its new book”Mataali’i” around the Auckland region.

Created by Wainuiomata resident Dahlia Malaeulu, Darcy Solia and Liz Tui Morris, “Mataali’i” weaves a story rich in Samoan cultural values.

It blends earthly duties with ancestral bonds. The book tells the story of FetŪ, the youngest sister of a unique family of matai (chiefs) and her connection to her siblings.

FetŪ becomes a guiding light for her village and a reminder of the enduring power of iga, duty and hope for the future. The book has a target audience of 6+ years.

“Pacific languages are a key cornerstone for the health and well-being of Pacific people,” the Ministry for Pacific Peoples says.

“History shows us that a loss of language leads to a loss of culture and identity.

“Language Week celebrations had

their origins in Samoa in 2007 with Vaiaso o le Gagana Samoa, founded by Fa’alapotopotoga mo le A’oa’oina o le Gagana Samoa i Aotearoa.

“In 2009, the Human Rights Commission came on board to support the communities and the concept of Pacific Language Weeks was born.

“Since 2010, the Ministry for Pacific Peoples has been supporting Pacific Language Weeks, promoting and raising awareness of the diversity of our Pacific languages in Aotearoa.

“Each year, the Ministry works closely with Pacific communities to maintain and promote indigenous languages across the country, encouraging their use in our daily lives to help them thrive.” Aupito William Sio, a former Member of Parliament, helped to grow, elevate and strengthen Pacific Language Weeks during his time as the Minister for Pacific Peoples.

The 2024 theme for Samoa Language Week is ‘Tautua i le alofa, manuia le lumana’i – Serve in love for a blessed future’. This theme derives from the overarching Language Week Series theme for 2024, “Sustainability”.

Aupito William Sio, former Minister for Pacific Peoples, with a copy of “Mataali’i”. Photo: Mila’s Books.

Irish band Shindig performing at the Pioneer Church. Photo: Supplied.

Dahlia Malaeulu’s sons Isaia and Mason reading “Mataali’i” for the first time. Photo: Mila’s Books.

Explore unspoiled Chatham Islands

If you’re seeking a unique, unforgettable adventure in New Zealand, Iook no further than Chatham Island Tours.

Nestled in the remote reaches of the South Pacific Ocean, the Chatham Islands offer a pristine and unspoiled natural paradise, and Merv Halliday, owner and operator of Chatham lsland Tours, is your key to unlocking its wonders. Here’s what makes Chatham Island Tours and Merv Halliday stand out:

Authenticity: Merv, possesses an intimate knowledge of the island’s history, culture, and ecosystems. His passion for sharing the island’s treasures with visitors is palpable, ensuring that every tour is an authentic and enriching experience.

Customised adventures: Chatham lsland Tours caters to private groups. Whether you’re a bird-watching enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seek a tranquil escape, Merv can design a tour that suits your group’s desires. Other highlights are visiting the Kaingaroa Tree Carvings and the amazing Basalt Columns at Owenga, Waitangi West. The early Moriori carved designs, known as dendroglyphs, are estimated to be up to 300 years old but are still visible on the trees. The basalt columns are a series of pentagonal shaped volcanic rock columns on the shoreline, and not found anywhere else on the island. Options of fishing trips and flights to adjacent Pitt Island are also taken advantage of. The Chatham Islands is generally not on the ‘Tourist Trail’ and therefore its unique history is still virtually untold.”

Exclusive access: With Merv’s connections and expertise, you’ll gain access to areas and experiences that are off-limits to most tourists. All concessions are taken care off. Explore secluded beaches, discover hidden coves, and encounter rare wildlife while enjoying the serenity of an unspoiled natural environment.

Rich history: Chatham Islands have a fascinat-

ing history, from the Moriori people’s ancient culture to the European whaling era

Diverse wildlife: The Chatham Islands are a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Encounter rare and endangered species, including the Chatham Island wood pigeon (Parea), Merv’s tours provide unparalleled opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife photography.

Tranquil beauty: Escape the hustle and bustle of modern life and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of rugged landscapes, rolling hills, pristine beaches; a place where time seems to stop.

Personalised service: All tours are escorted by a “Tour Leader” and a “Local Guide will regale you with captivating stories and insights, bringing the island’s past to life. “We travel over 300 kilometres by bus, visiting the four corners of the island and the special places in between, Chatham Island Tours – We have the facilities. We have the aircraft. We have the opportunity. Best of all …. Our prices won’t be beaten.

For any inquiries, contact Merv on (03) 249 8294 or email chathamislandtours@gmail. com. PBA

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Future transport needs being reviewed

People’s views on the future of transport in the Wellington region is currently being sought.

Greater Wellington Regional Council is conducting its mid-term review of the Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP), the blueprint guiding the region’s transport network over the next 10-30 years.

It released the plan for public input on 24 May.

Regional Transport Committee chair Adrienne Staples says feedback on the plan helps shape the future of regional travel, and a system used by thousands of commuters, cyclists, freight, and commercial vehicles every day.

“The Mid-Term Review is a public warrant of fitness for our region’s transport activities, allowing us to keep public sentiment front of mind as we seek funding for projects that help connect our communities,” Cr Staples says.

Feedback will be collected on the list of key transport projects prioritised by the Wellington Regional Transport Committee, including: · rail network track and infrastructure upgrades as well as wider capacity and safety improvements; · ‘Roads of National Significance’ including a second Mt Victoria tunnel, the Petone to Grenada Link Road and the Cross Valley Link; and · implementation of an integrated national ticketing system for public transport.

Projects under the RLTP are proposed by the region’s nine councils, as well as KiwiRail, and Waka Kotahi New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA).

The RLTP is then submitted to NZTA for funding consideration from the National Land Transport Fund.

Consultation will also focus on the plan’s changes to the weighting

of transport investment priorities, designed to respond to the region’s most significant transport problems.

The Mid-Term Review process was initiated in early 2023 by inviting input from the Wellington Region to better understand their transport priorities.

“We received valuable feedback from over 2,000 respondents, helping us shape the review and we’re now encouraging people to share their perspectives on the draft,” Cr Staples says.

Until 24 June, the public can participate in the consultation process. Individuals will also have the opportunity to address their submissions during public hearings.

Feedback received during the consultation will be considered by the Regional Transport Committee before the Mid-Term Review undergoes final review and approval by the regional council.

WANTED

Newspaper Deliverers

The Wainuiomata News requires deliverers in the following areas on a Wednesday each week:

AREA 1: Hamstead, Enfield, part Wellington, Kendall 220 papers

AREA 2: Naseby Gr, Bexley Gr, part of Wellington Rd 285 papers

AREA 3: Dover Rd, Westminster Rd, part of Wellington Rd 385 papers

The finalised RLTP will be submitted to NZTA in July and made available to view on the Greater Wellington website.

To participate in the consultation, visit https://haveyoursay. gw.govt.nz/rltp-mid-term-review.

Boost for local apprentices

As affordable, warm homes are built in Lower Hutt, so too are career pathways with an impressive 45 apprentices currently working on Urban Plus housing projects.

Since 2018, Urban Plus, the social housing development arm of Hutt City Council, has overseen the completion of five housing projects with a total of 124 homes.

A further 60 homes, including five accessible homes, are currently under construction at five sites.

Work on another 67 homes across three sites will start in the coming months.

Urban Plus aligns with providers who deliver progressive home ownership and long-term rental outcomes, including the Tuatahi Centre, which has an office in Wainuiomata.

Lower Hutt Mayor Campbell Barry is delighted that by boosting the city’s housing stock apprenticeship opportunities have flourished.

“We have a panel for our contractors of about six construction entities where apprenticeships, amongst many things, are discussed.

“In our contracts we ask them to onboard as many apprentices as possible for each project.”

The 45 apprentices working on Urban Plus projects are undertaking apprenticeships in a range of occupations including electricians, plumbers, builders, painters and plasterers.

Urban Plus builds Homestar-rated homes. This ensures a healthier, warmer, drier, and more comfortable home that uses less power and water than a similar home built to the minimum standard of the New Zealand Building Code. Mayor Barry hosted a hui last month with key social housing stakeholders in Lower Hutt to discuss some of the key issues facing the sector.

“The hui showed the strength and ambition of housing and support providers in Lower Hutt.

“The fact that so many apprentices are working on Urban Plus developments, and beginning careers in a range of trades, is a fantastic outcome for the city,” he says.

“The successes we are seeing with apprentices is a result of strong partnerships across the sector.

AREA 4: Meremere St, Manurewa GR, Mataura Gr 300 papers

AREA 5: Faulke Ave, Burden Ave, part of Wood St 270 papers

AREA 6: Parenga St, Ngaturi Gr, part of Wood St and Coast Rd 235 papers

AREA 7: Frederick St, Derwent St, Mackay St 260 papers

AREA 8: Donnelley Dr, Roberts St, Norfolk St 290 papers

ACROSS

1. Inundate (9)

6. After birth. (9)

11. Rate in music(pl) (5)

12. Grease from wool. (7)

13. Disturb. (5)

14. Make less severe. (8)

17. Hackneyed convention. (10)

18. Pounds,shillings & pence(abbr)(3)

20. Heavy wooden hammer. (4)

22. Sets fire to. (7)

24. Halo round heavenly body. (6)

Urban Plus Chief Executive Daniel Moriarty says creating apprenticeships with career progression is a key component in each of its housing developments.

WEDNESDAY

“I’m confident these partnerships will continue to grow and thrive as we look at the challenges and opportunities we have ahead of us in the social housing sector.”

26. Consumed. (3)

28. Papal letter. (5)

29. Cotton fabric. (7)

32. Accustom. (5)

33. Parson-bird. (3)

34. U.S. Intelligence agency (abbr) (3)

35. Facial twitch. (3)

36. Ingenuous. (5)

37.One who urges wrongdoing. (7)

38. Muslim title. (5)

39. Electric fish. (3)

41. Tributary stream. (6)

42. Embellished. (7)

44. Agitate. (4)

47. The same. (3)

49.Paid motor-car driver (fem) (10)

51. Valet. (8)

FACT

Avocados are fruits: They have a dark green exterior, green flesh, and a large pit in the center.

W R O O R C S D S SOLUTION

55. Of sight. (5)

56. Soaked in blood. (7)

57. Cooped up. (5)

58. Act of formally withdrawing from the church. (9)

59. Loathes. (9)

DOWN

1. Most favourable. (7)

2. Ant. (5)

3. Twists. (6)

4. Splendour. (5)

5. Covering for horse’s head, -sheet. (4)

6. Artist’s paint board. (7)

7. Girls name (6)

8. Of the nerves. (12)

9. Sapid. (5)

10. Professional writer. (11)

15. Ailing. (3)

16. Mine entrance. (4)

19. Husband-to-be. (6)

21. Use. (7)

23. Friendly. (6)

25. Rich. (7)

26. Consequences. (5-7)

27. Right of access. (6)

Well-doers. (11)

Outfit. (3)

Cafe. (6)

(4)

For December 22, 2004

43. Rubbish container. (7)

44. Snow runner. (3)

45. Ornamental screen behind altar (7) 46. Star sign. (6) 48. Early cavalry soldier. (6)

Garret. (5)

Furnish. (5)

Dusk, ...fall. (5)

Real name Ella Geisman, actress Allyson. (4)

Pets

CATTERY Casa De Wootton, home away from home. Rural surroundings. 187 Moores Valley Road. Phone Jane 5644310

Local leading try scorer

By Frank Neill

Wainuiomata Rugby player Niko Paletesio is leading the list of try scorers in the Swindale Shield competition following the 25 May matches.

Niko, who plays on the wing, has scored 12 tries so far this season.

He is tied with Old Boys University’s centre Elijah Maene-Lokeni at the top of the try scoring table.

The story was not so good for the Wainuiomata premier team on 25 May however.

Hutt Old Boys Marist beat them 29-13 at the Hutt Recreation Ground. The home team led 12-6 at half time after Wainuiomata’s second five eight Taylor Tane kicked two penalties.

Niko scored Wainuiomata’s try early in the second half, and Tyler converted it.

They came close to scoring again a number of times, but were not able to add to their total and put pressure on their opponents.

HOBM’s win was built around a solid performance from their forward

pack in both the scrums and lineouts.

The Wainuiomata premiers will meet Northern United in an away match on 1 June.

Lions win by default

The Wainuiomata Lions did not get the chance to take on the team they beat in last year’s Rugby League Grand Final, the Porirua Vikings, on 25 May.

The Vikings defaulted to Wainuiomata, giving the Lions a 30-0 “victory”.

The result saw the Lions sitting second on the premier table, just two points behind the St George Dragons.

Whiti Te Ra ki taki is equal with the Lions on points, but sits in third place as they have a lower points differential.

The Vikings meanwhile are well down the table in sixth place, in marked contrast to their 2023 season.

The last time the two teams met was in the 2023 Grand Final and the match was closely contested with the

Lions winning 22-18 after the Vikings led 12-10 at half time.

There is no play next weekend, as it is King’s Birthday weekend, and the Lions next match sees them meet the St George Dragons in a top of the table clash at Cannons Creek Park on 8 June.

Wainuiomata did get to play in the premier reserves division on 25 May however.

The defeated top of the table Randwick 22-14, giving Randwick its first loss of the season.

The result saw Wainuiomata placed fourth on the table following the seven matches played so far.

The premier reserves next match is against Victoria Hunters at Frederick Wise Park on 8 June.

HOBM were also the winners over Wainuiomata in the premier 2 match on 25 May, taking out a comfortable 67-13 victory.

Ulalei Fuesina scores season’s

Ulalei Fuesina secured their first win of the season with a tightly contested 27-25 victory over High School Old Girls on 25 May in Netball Hutt Valley’s Senior 4 competition.

They had to stage a major comeback to take out the win after they trailed 9-13 at half time.

“Fuesina took on a more experienced (HSOG3) team on Saturday and with four players missing due to injury and school commitments,” Coach Eleanor McLeod says.

“The match was always going to be a battle of resilience after already suffering two losses backto-back.

“The shooting combination of Mahinarangi Gillies, Amelia Manu and Reihania Araiti-Wilson proved a handful for their defensive opponents, with Araiti-Wilson putting in an accurate shooting performance.

“Co-captains Ruby Keomany and Tiana Ruwhiu along with youngster Siobhan Sa’u combined

well in the midcourt to gain both possession and turnovers.

“Down 13-9 at half time, the Fuesina youngsters stepped it up a notch and were able to convert their own whilst making some valuable turnovers, many of those gained from utility player Roshaniah Leo’o and agile Goal Defence (GD) Milan Patea who was instrumental in Fuesina’s victory,” Eleanor says.

Ulalei Fuesina is made up of players from Wainuiomata High School, Sacred Heart College, St Mary’s College, Taita College and Wellington Girls College.

Eleanor and manager Faimafili Tamaalii are happy with the progress of their young squad.

The team has learnt new techniques and game plays while also ensuring they execute the fundamentals well.

Ulalei Aute 1 defeated the Upper Hutt Rams 51-42 on 25 May in the Premier 1 competition.

There are no regular netball fixtures this weekend due to King’s birthday weekend.

Fuesina, who secured their first victory of the seaon on 25 May. Photo: Supplied.

Netball

for

Festival Day held at the Taita Courts. The club is holding a Bingo Night Fundraiser this Friday 31 May at

Action from Wainuiomata’s match against Hutt Old Boys Marist. Photo: Warwick Burke.

Matariki – A time for renewal

Composed by David Smith

If you want your relationship with God to renew, Then June Down Under is a good time to look up at night among the stars to view, God’s Eyes (mata ariki) upon you, Or if you change the angle of your View, You can see Little angel eyes (mata riki) too, As a new year he brings with many treats for you, From a harvest he has blessed to be in fine hue.

If you look through the mists of time for a view, Matariki might change appearance for you, And whaea (Mother), surrounded by her six daughters, Tupu-a-nuku - to remind us we have our own special time. Tupu-a-rangi - to remind us to share our gifts with others. Waipunarangi - to show kindness will come back to you. Waiti and Waita (twins) - to join in and support each other. Urangi - to remind us, a good attitude is always key to success, Will be what comes into view for you.

No matter which cloak Matariki wears for you to view, You can be sure Wisdom will be Matariki’s gift to you In June, A good time to renew, And give relationships a brighter hue.

One of the most caring nurses

By Frank Neill

Anne Webster, who has helped scores of Wainuiomata tamariki suffering respiratory illnesses such as asthma and their wh nau, was honoured at the 2024 Respiratory Achievers’ Awards on 23 May.

Anne won the award for the Respiratory Educator of the Year Award.

She has dedicated her life to helping others.

For the past 20 years, she has worked as an asthma and respiratory nurse with Tu Kotahi M ori Asthma Trust in Lower Hutt, focusing on educating children and their wh nau about asthma.

That has included working with tamariki and their wh nau in Wainuiomata.

This has been very important for them as Wainuiomata can get very damp and very cold, which can exacerabte respiratory conditions, she says.

Another Wainuiomata link for Anne has been working with K kiri Marae.

When it was first set up Tu Kotahi M ori Asthma Trust was under the K kiri Marae, and that was where its office was based.

As the marae expanded the trust needed to move to new offices in Port Road, Seaview.

She has also worked with Te Kura Kaupapa M ori o Te Ara Whanui, and a number of the kura’s students she worked with lived in Wainuiomata.

Anne is full of praise for the kura

and its Tumuaki Kararaina Luke.

“It’s awesome what they do for their tamariki. They invest a lot in keeping their tamariki well,” she says.

Anne’s colleagues describe her as one of the most caring nurses, who always goes the extra mile for wh nau in her care.

Anne, however, prefers to focus on the great teamwork at Tu Kotahi.

“”It really is a team effort that fits me for getting out in the community to work with and for wh nau,” she says.

Originally from Gisborne, Anne has spent two decades trying to help tamariki stay well with their asthma. She retired last month.

While there have been many struggles, there have also been many rewards, she says.

“Two years ago, a very unhappy

11-year young boy told me he was not going to bother playing basketball any more because he was embarrassed he had to come off the court every five minutes to have his reliever despite taking his preventer every day.

“I asked his GP for a stronger inhaler and he changed to it, stuck to his asthma action plan, and now rarely misses a game.”

Anne is an advocate for tamariki. She wants to see them do well.

“I really feel I have achieved something when tamariki are well, at school and thriving.

“It’s also really rewarding to then see these tamariki became adults and parents, then contact me to visit them to help them manage their children’s asthma,” she says.

“It’s most enjoyable seeing their beautiful children and knowing I’ve helped their whole family.”

Anne Webster wearing the kākahu (cloak) with some of the team from Tu Kotahi Māori Asthma Trust. Photo: Supplied.