Whanganui reports a higher than average rate of people with activity limitations (9.7% v. 6.5% nationally), and while there are many agencies dedicated to serving our disabled community, it was apparent from our own work in the space that the sector could benefit from a citywide strategy and increased connection.

Two sports teams from Cullinane College and a performing arts group are the recipients of funding aimed at supporting local young people to be active.

A few items in this months newsletter: Read the full newsletter here

Painting tamariki-designed games outside Whanganui’s Splash Centre makes for fun and inviting play-on-the way.

As well as running regular information sessions ranging in topics from parent education to funding, leadership and governance training, our team also works side-by-side with sports clubs to help them plan for the future.

A very big thank you to Mitre 10 MEGA Wanganui for generously making and donating two storage boxes to St Marys School and Keith Street School, to store their loose parts play equipment.

Sport Whanganui are pleased to support Volunteer Week and would like to sincerely thank all the wonderful volunteers who give up their time to contribute towards sport and recreation in the Whanganui, Rangitīkei and Ruapehu region.

A few items in our June newsletter: Read more here

The newly established Mokonui Hub in Ranana is a fantastic place for all members of the awa community to gather. When Deb and Darren from our Active Wellbeing team were asked by The Community Led Trust to provide kaumatua exercise classes, they jumped at the chance.

This Men’s Health Week Sport Whanganui is partnering with local organisations to encourage men to get active and look after their health.

Losing your balance as you age is a big injury risk, so ACC have launched the Nymbl app to help older New Zealanders prevent falls and fractures.

If you have sports gear at home and would like to see it passed on bring it into Sport Whanganui or drop the gear in a Replay bin at one of the drop off zones.  And if you know of a family needing a hand with finding sports gear – let Sport Whanganui know. 

Our latest Healthy Active Learning Newsletter is here and includes updates from our recent Ngā Taonga Tākaro Wānanga in Whanganui and Rangitīkei, and updates from our HAL schools and holiday programmes. Enjoy!

Held during Youth Week, the inaugural Battle of the Codes for secondary students was a huge success with 130 rangatahi completing an interactive course.

In an interview with Mike Tweed published in the Whanganui Chronicle on 10 May 2023, Sport Whanganui CE Danny Jonas discussed concerns about divestment in the sporting sector.