KDW Tairāwhiti Inc

Over a period of 4 wānanga, our boys were learning karakia under the guidance of Dayne Hollis 🙌

It’s been a powerful journey bringing together players, leaders, and whānau, using karakia as a way to strengthen connection, respect, and unity within our roopū ✨

Here’s some whakaaro from Dayne:

“A highlight for me as a kaiako was seeing how karakia became the vehicle to bind everyone closer together. Within Ruruku and karakia Māori, there are principles that guide behaviour and help build a strong collective foundation. These young men, from different backgrounds, showed respect, a willingness to learn, and the courage to step into discomfort in order to grow. That stood out to me.”

“We have the medicine within Te Ao Māori, not only for our own people, but for all cultures. By staying true to myself and trusting the process, I could help guide this team, its leaders, and whānau to move forward together, grounded in tikanga and kawa.”

We are very proud of our boys for embracing this kaupapa and continuing to grow both on and off the field 💪

Dayne reminded us of the importance and power of karakia in our journey together. Karakia helps guide and protects us, helping to safeguard us spiritually, mentally and emotionally.

It’s something we can use at any point in time whenever we need to reconnect, refocus or ground ourselves.

Before a game, nerves can be high and boys might feel anxious or overwhelmed. Karakia helps bring the team back together - back into alignment, and most importantly, back to our goal.

It recentres our mind, calms our wairua, and reminds us of our kaupapa and purpose we are all working toward as a team 🔥