On 20 March 2026, kaumātua from across Te Arawa gathered in Rotorua for the annual Te Arawa Kaumātua Olympics — a fun, fit, and fabulous day filled with laughter, movement, manaakitanga, and friendly competition.
Hosted by Oranga Tinana o Ue at the Energy Events Centre, the kaupapa brought together kaumātua rōpū from throughout the rohe to celebrate hauora, whakawhanaungatanga, and active ageing in a way that was uplifting, inclusive, and grounded in kaupapa Māori values.
Representing our hapū were:
- Yvonne Wiki
- Rhonda Devorms
- Huhana Peri Woods and mokopuna Jaysiah Peri-Woods
- Kahu Ehau
- Erena Mayanne Curtis
- Hare Ruhi
- Puti Ruhi
- Pohe Raupita
- Sharon Matewhero
Our kaumātua took part in a range of age-friendly games and activities designed to encourage movement, coordination, teamwork, and plenty of laughter. Activities included Kiwi Pong, bowls, noodle badminton, Jenga, puzzles, and poi ora — all creating moments of connection, encouragement, and joy throughout the day.
The Te Arawa Kaumātua Olympics is more than just a sporting event. It is a celebration of our kaumātua — their strength, humour, wisdom, and continued contribution to our whānau and communities. The kaupapa reflects the importance of keeping kaumātua active, socially connected, and engaged, while also strengthening intergenerational relationships and cultural identity.
A huge mihi to Oranga Tinana o Ue, the volunteers, organisers, kura students, supporters, and all participating rōpū who helped make the day such a success. Most importantly, ngā mihi nui to our kaumātua who represented our hapū with mana, positivity, and great team spirit.
We are already looking forward to next year’s Olympics!
