Mates Mana wellbeing workshops: How Tairāwhiti groups can book free sessions

Mates of Tairāwhiti presenting the Mates Mana workshop at a local business.

The Mates Mana wellbeing and stress management workshop, delivered by Mates of Tairāwhiti, is now available free to community organisations across the rohe.

The Government recently announced $50,000 from the Rural Wellbeing Fund to help deliver the Mates Mana initiative. This is alongside previously confirmed funding from Trust Tairāwhiti and the Sunrise Foundation.

“Thanks to this incredibly meaningful support, we’re able to offer Mates Mana free of charge wherever and whenever it’s needed,” said Mates of Tairāwhiti co-ordinator Bridgette Penny.

“We’ll be going out into rural and remote communities, particularly those that have been impacted by multiple weather events over the past few years. Combined with challenging economic conditions, we know all too well that many people are doing it tough out there.”

Mates Mana was developed in Tairāwhiti and is delivered by local presenters.

It’s designed to be interactive and engaging, with a focus on practical tips and techniques for real-life situations.

In one hour, attendees will learn stress management techniques, self-care practices, strategies for building resilience, and how to create a culture of wellbeing.

“This workshop is free to all local community, iwi, hapū, farming, charity, volunteer, health, wellbeing and educational organisations, anywhere in Tairāwhiti,” said Penny.

“Mates Mana is for groups of 15 or more. Just get in touch with me and we’ll book in a date for your workshop.”

To launch the regionwide rollout of Mates Mana, Mates of Tairāwhiti are holding a supporters’ event at Gisborne parkrun this Saturday, starting at 7.50am.

“The positive benefits of exercise and companionship on mental health are widely recognised,” Penny said.

“So we’re thrilled to team up with Gisborne parkrun to publicly launch the free Mates Mana workshop initiative.

“Come down to the Waikanae Surf Lifesaving Club just before 8am this Saturday to meet some of our team, share a quick kōrero about our kaupapa, and pick up a flyer with more information about Mates Mana. We’re bringing the 911 Coffee Co cart along too.”

Those interested in booking a free Mates Mana workshop for an organisation can contact Bridgette Penny at hello@matesoftairawhiti.nz or phone 021 222 1701.