Accomplishments
Highlights of 2026 so far…
Ihi Camp 2026
We had just over 80 rangatahi from around Te Ika-a-Māui attend the four-days, held here at Ōmahu Marae. We were not joking about hitting the ground running this year lol. The purpose of this camp was to create a space ‘where rangatahi ignite’ their own fires, nurture these through engaging workshops with the hope that upon returning home, they share their fire with their community.
This camp gave rangatahi a chance to get out of their comfort zone, including workshops like dance, music and haka. We got to see raw talent as they created a new song and haka from scratch that they then performed at our showcase evening for the community and local stakeholders! Pretty amazing, if you ask us.
It was definitely a time to remember, filled with laughter, good mauri and inspiration. We even held a house competition (shoutout to group ‘E’ for taking the W).
You don’t wanna miss out next year! Onwards & upwards.
Saying goodbye to our Raukura
Through many dedicated years of hard work and commitment, tour raukura were ready to graduate from Toi Matarua and go into the world as young adults. These rangatahi played a massive role as a part of this kaupapa and have left a long lasting impression on us for many years to come. E kore ana te aroha e mutu ana ki a koutou katoa.
Rangatahi to Eden Park
Our rangatahi had the privilege of being invited to the closing of the 17 year study that followed thousands of hapū māmā from 2009-2025 known as GuiNZ, as the main event! Which was held at Eden Park in their Grand Hall. It was such an honour to attend such an event for our rangatahi as well as Toi Matarua as a whole. Their production followed the life of a young girl that was born in 2009 and portrayed what it was like growing up in Aotearoa through the eyes of a rangatahi: He Kākāno: Seeds of a Generation.
Unity Day ‘26
Two of Toi Matarua’s strongest and hard working members have been acknowledged through the annual community-focused event hosted by the Napier Pilot City Trust, the 2026 Unity Day. Sarah Pihema and Gracyn have earned their awards through many years of dedication and love for their community. They have sown time and time again that their hearts are with the kaupapa that Toi Matarua represents and holds true. Being acknowledged for this by the Hawkes Bay community is an honour to cherish. Couldn’t be any less proud of these two amazing workers.
Napier Youth Council
We are so proud to have three of our rangatahi leaders be a part of the Napier Youth Council this year. Gracyn, Te Koha alongside Hikurangi have all stepped into the world of politics and are letting their voices be heard through this Youth Council. Toi Matarua is proud to back them with all their kaupapa.
Better Home & Living Show
Just on the last weekend of March, the MokoBoy’s attended the Better Home & Living Show as Exhibitors! Their stall consisted of all our products that you can find on our Māku Organics website!
Teina from our Tū Tārake Leadership Development Program also stood with the stall to help out with the sales, along with members from our Pakaru Pānui team!!
We rangatahi had an amazing time attending this event and connecting with you all!
Rarotonga Exchange
The Tū Tārake Leadership Development Programme recently returned from an unforgettable trip to the beautiful Cook Islands, where 17 rangatahi took part in a week of cultural exchange, learning, and adventure.
Staying at the Tongareva Hostel, the group had the opportunity to immerse themselves in Cook Islands culture, learning about local customs, traditions, and ways of life. Along the way, many discovered strong similarities between Cook Islands culture and their own Māori culture here in Aotearoa, highlighting the close connections shared across the Pacific.
The haerenga was a perfect mix of fun and learning. Rangatahi attended the renowned Te Mire Ura Nui dance competition, spent time exploring Rarotonga’s stunning beaches, facilitated a Kī-o-Rahi workshop for local hostel kids and even visited the Cook Islands Parliament, where they gained insight into the country's political system. One of the highlights was interviewing two local youth leaders for their podcast, providing an opportunity to hear firsthand about the aspirations, challenges, and achievements of young people in the Cook Islands (follow @whyshouldwegiveaf to watch the full podcast which is coming very soon).
The experience left the group with new knowledge, strengthened cultural connections, and memories that will stay with them for years to come.
Until next time, Rarotonga!