Week of health, movement and wellness

Well Wāhine celebrants enjoy the closing ceremony to mark Well Wāhine Week 2024. Participants took part in nutrition and wellness events organised by Whiti Ora Tairāwhiti, formerly Sport Gisborne Tairāwhiti. Picture supplied

Wāhine came  together at a Well Wāhine Week 2024 closing ceremony to eat, connect, and celebrate their experiences.

“The closing celebration is a great opportunity for participants and providers to reflect on the week that was,” said Whiti Ora Tairāwhiti active communities adviser Sarah Pocock.

“Well Wāhine Week is a time when women and girls, mums and daughters carve out time to look after themselves, try new things, and maybe have a laugh as they step outside their comfort zones.

“The closing celebration (held on Sunday) applauds participants for taking time for themselves and connecting to activities in our community.

“It also thanks the providers.

“Well Wāhine Week doesn’t exist without the support of local women and girls.”

Over the course of 10 days, wāhine had the opportunity to participate in over 50 free events, ranging from waka ama, line dancing,whānau fitness, yoga and rugby to badminton, surfing and line dancing.

Workshops and activities were also held up the Coast, in Wharekahika, Tikitiki and Ruatōria.

“The closing celebration was such a great way to round out Well Wāhine Week,” said naturopathic doctor and women’s health expert Amanda Roe.

“As providers, it’s nice for us to meet each other and connect.

“It brings us together to see what more we can offer our amazing community when we combine our efforts.

“What’s also really cool is seeing former participants returning each year, trying new things, and some of them even hosting their own sessions.”

Local businesses sponsored prizes worth over $2000 for wāhine who had participated in events during the week.

Plans to run Well Wāhine for a fifth year are in place for 2025.