Sport Canterbury was recently invited to Marshland School to witness the journey students have been on with Ko Wai Au (Who I Am), a programme funded by Tū Manawa and delivered using a kaupapa Māori approach. 

Through the Tū Manawa funding, Matua Damion Neri of Purapura Whetu facilitates the sessions once a week, allowing the tamariki to improve their physical and mental wellbeing, leadership skills, and for some, a connection to their culture.  

The student's engagement in this programme – illustrated by their commitment to taking part during morning tea break - has resulted in success back into the classroom.  

The sessions have been a different way to learn for the tamariki, Deputy Principal, Riki Culley suggests, "Our school has been on a journey throughout this programme”. 

“This has provided a platform and opportunity for our tamariki to participate, collaborate and learn different elements of mau rākau for a whole year”. 

Healthy Active Learning (HAL) Facilitator, Jono Collins has been impressed by what he has observed, and now understands the full picture of what Ko wai Au means to these students.  

"It’s great to see such a rich and worthwhile experience, and to hear that the skills are going back into the classroom, into the playground, and back home to their whanau”. 

Marshland School are pleased with the results from Ko Wai Au, an inclusive programme that aligns closely with Marshland MANA values of Manaakitanga, Ako, Ngātahi and Aumangea. 

If you’d like to apply for Tū Manawa funding, you can up until Sunday 30 July 2023 here: https://bit.ly/3X8FNuh