Media Release

25 March 2008

WAKA AMA SCHOOL NATIONALS

 The Taranaki DHB Health Promotion Unit in partnership with the Otaikokako Waka Ama club has spent the last six weeks working with students from 5 Taranaki High Schools to increase their knowledge of Waka Ama history, the sport and associated traditions.

Waka Ama is a fast growing sport across the region. This is the first time that 75 students from NPBHS, SHGC, Spotswood College, Opunake High and FDMC will represent Taranaki at the National Secondary Schools competition from 31 March - 3 April at Lake Karapiro in Cambridge.
As a warm up to the nationals all crews will have the opportunity to experience the race situation by competing against each other on the 26th of March at Ngamotu Beach between 4-6pm.
Taranaki DHB Health Promoter Tamara Higgs said Waka Ama or outrigger canoes have always been an integral part of the culture of pacific people. 
“The culture of the canoe or Waka Ama is culturally significant and important for Maori, there is a lot of learning involved in this sport.  Participating in Waka Ama is more than just getting out onto the water and paddling the canoe.  Good teamwork and communication skills are required in order for the waka to move smoothly through the water.”
“Waka Ama is not like your everyday sport, it connects Maori youth with their culture, peers and the traditions of their ancestors”  she said. “This along with the benefits that come from regular physical activity can only positively impact on the health and wellbeing of our Rangatahi.”
Attending the nationals and competing against students from other New Zealand secondary schools will be a challenge but one our representing schools are able to meet.

 Media are invited to Ngamotu Beach on the 26th. 

 For more information please contact

Taare Ruakere (Otaikokako Waka Ama Club Chairman) 0274 068447

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