Young people from Avondale College’s XV are part of a bold initiative to ground hauora in their everyday lives – shaping how they see themselves, their relationships, and their wellbeing.
The initiative is built on a simple but powerful idea: when young people can define wellbeing for themselves – and feel safe in their relationships – they’re more likely to speak up, seek support, and stand by one another.
Our first workshop showed us something clear,” says Healthy Families Waitākere Pacific Systems Innovator, Pelenatino Malo. “Yes, these young people face real challenges, but more importantly, their relationships with friends and family are a core source of strength.
To deepen this protective layer of wellbeing – and guided by the Fonofale model – a second workshop was held, this time with the players’ families.
One late Thursday night, Malo and Pacific Systems Strategist Ella Falakoa led parents through a series of questions — gently exploring what hauora means to them in a safe, supportive space.
The kōrero revealed something powerful: parents are deeply attuned to their children’s emotional and physical states.
“Parents echoed many of the same themes their children had shared,” says Falakoa.
The kōrero revealed something powerful: parents are deeply attuned to their children’s emotional and physical states. As one parent shared, “The sharing of knowledge, that they are not alone in their struggles. After a game or practice, physically they are exhausted and depending on the outcome of the game itself, emotionally there are things to consider.”
“Parents were primarily interested in understanding how to support their children when they are recovering – after a game or practice – as physically they are exhausted and depending on the outcome of the game itself, emotionally there are things to consider. Parents want to understand how they can be there for their children during these times.”
“They also saw value in connecting — not just with other families, but with coaches and school leaders too,” Falakoa adds. “They recognise hauora isn’t just about the individual. It’s something we build together. It was a clear call for a collective and collaborative approach.”
Drawing on insights from both workshops, Healthy Families Waitākere is now co-designing a hauora workshop series — created by the community, for the community. It’s a reminder that the best solutions don’t come from outside — they come from listening, connecting, and creating together.
To view a video on the family night click here.
