The Tipu Ora health clinic is gearing up to provide a fun and educational family day out for clients this weekend.
Whakanuia Te Whanau will involve workshops including toy-making, traditional Maori games and fun children's activities such as face painting at the Rotorua Village Green.
The free event will also include aTipu Idol karaoke, 20-minute Zumba work-out, kai time (food) competitions and health and safety demonstrations from staff at the Rotorua Fire Service and Rotorua Aquatic Centre.
Tipu Ora health promotion co-ordinator and event organiser Stephen Te Moni said Whakanuia Te Whanau was a result of a Tipu Ora clients' survey that highlighted the need for a family event and months of preparation had gone into providing a successful day for everyone.
He said about 1800 clients were associated with Tipu Ora and he hoped at least 20 per cent of those people would come along. "I'd be happy with about 100 people turning up," he said. "It's going to be a fun day and I encourage everyone to come along."
He said it was a good opportunity for whanau to gear up for summer and educate themselves on water safety as well as learn ki-o-rahi and how to utilise old tools or equipment for other purposes.
"There will be plenty of fun activities and competitions to get involved in and plenty of good prizes given out during the day," he said.
"We were fortunate to have been sponsored by lots of businesses and it's a good kaupapa to get behind."
Alongside the spot prizes and giveaways, a nutritional lunch will also be provided.
Sponsored prizes will include 100 seven-day passes to the Gold's Health and Fitness gym and passes to dine at Triple 1 Five Restaurant, Hells Gate Rotorua, Tamaki Maori Village, Mitai Maori Village and other adventure tourism activities, including white water rafting.
Transport is also available for clients but needs to be organised beforehand through Tipu Ora.
Tipu Ora health clinic provides health, education and social services to children under 5.
Whakanuia Te Whanau will be held between 10am and 2pm at the Rotorua Village Green tomorrow. For more information, contact Stephen Te Moni on (07) 348 2400 extension 205.
