The Ngāti Kahungunu Ki Te Wairoa Basketball Team recently made their mark on the court at the National Māori Basketball Tournament in Rotorua, thanks to the support of the Wairoa Young Achievers Trust (WYAT).
Competing against iwi teams from across the North Island, the boys stepped up to the challenge and proudly represented their iwi, hapū, and whānau in what is often described as the Māori basketball equivalent of the NBA.
The team faced tough competition, playing in an older age group where they held their own and delivered an impressive performance, finishing 4th in their section. Competing against five teams, the boys grew stronger with each game. By the second half of their opening match, they began adapting their strategy and improving their placement on the court. Their defence became sharper, and their shooting more precise, showcasing their resilience and determination.
Rebecca King, the team’s manager, shared her pride in the boys’ journey. “This tournament is unlike anything our boys are used to—it’s big, competitive, and filled with incredible talent. But they rose to the occasion. Watching their confidence grow with each game, and seeing how much they learned and improved, was truly heartwarming.”
Beyond the competition, the experience offered the team a chance to flourish. For many of these tamariki, it was their first exposure to such a large and well-established tournament. The event not only strengthened their skills on the court but also provided an opportunity to connect with their culture and represent their iwi with pride.
“Thanks to WYAT, we were able to give our boys this exposure to a higher level of play,” King said. “As a manager, aunty, and mother, I couldn’t be more proud of what they achieved. They represented Ngāti Kahungunu Ki Te Wairoa with mana and showed everyone what they’re capable of.”
WYAT’s support was instrumental in making this journey possible, helping to cover costs and ensuring the team could focus on their performance and development. By investing in opportunities like this, WYAT continues to empower young athletes and help them build skills that extend beyond the court.