Surfing New Zealand with the support from Te Puni Kokiri (TPK) will again host a hui for kairetireti ngaru Maori (Maori surfers). Hui have been held annually since 2008 and provides the opportunity to discuss, brainstorm and plan for the future.

Maori Surfers Hui 09

This is the only time of the year that Maori surfers can come together as a roopu (group) to korero (discuss) about the future of the sport commented Maori Projects Manager, Steve Ria (Ngati Ruapani/Rongowhakaata). From the korero we can gauge the needs and interests and develop a plan that will foster any new whakaaro (ideas) or address any concerns regarding the sport for Maori.
Discussions at previous hui and the various projects that have been undertaken to up-skill and assist whanau to become qualified coaches, judges or administrators have highlighted the opportunities that the sport or recreation of surfing can provide.
There are opportunities for whanau to support their local communities using the qualifications and skills they have acquired and experiences they have gained from the projects that have been delivered. The opportunity to travel globally is another option that is available as the surf judge and surf coach qualifications are recognised internationally.

The goal of the hui is to strengthen whanaungatanga (bonding) and develop networks to continue building the foundations that have already been laid. Kotahitanga (unity) is another aspect that the hui encourages. Being united initiates a common goal for individuals or groups to support one another and those that are planning to use the kaupapa of surfing for health, recreational or as a competitive sport.

This is an opportune time to listen to others who are commitment to introducing surfing to their friends, families and communities. They have all experienced the fun, the thrill, the success and heartaches when adapting to the sporting environment of surfing or when trying to teach whanau how to catch and ride waves.

Tane Nui a Rangi Marae at Mt Maunganui College is booked for Friday night and Saturday. Early arrivals are welcome to stay at the Marae on Friday night. The powhiri will take place Saturday morning at 8.45.

To register and for more information click here or contact Steve Ria Cell: 021227 8731 Email: steverai@surfingnz.co.nz

The agenda to date is as follows

Friday - Raamere
6pm - Mihi whakatau
6.30 - Kai
7.30 - Brainstorming

Saturday - Raahoroi
8.30 - Manuhiri assemble
8.45 - Powhiri
9.00 - Breakfast

9.30 - Mihimihi
10.00 - Maori Surf Presentation
11.00 - 2010 TPK projects update
12.00 - Maori Titles update
12.30 - Lunch

1.30 - Feedback/Open floor discussions
2.30 - Haka Practise - words
3.30 - Haka Practise - actions

4.30 - Dinner
5.00 - Clean up
5.30 - Karakia.

To register and for more information click here or contact Steve Ria Cell: 021227 8731 Email: steverai@surfingnz.co.nz