Katikati’s second annual free Whānau Hauora Day has been hailed a resounding success with an estimated 250-plus people enjoying the July 8 event inside the war memorial hall.
The event connected people with vital health, wellbeing and social support services in a welcoming, stigma-free environment, said Valarie Uilou of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tamawhariua, which organised the event.
Uilou said the turnout demonstrated just how valuable accessible events such as Whānau Hauora Day, centred on community, connection and collective wellbeing, were.
“The day was about opening doors, starting conversations and making it easier for people to access the incredible services available throughout the Western Bay.
More than 250 people attended Katikati’s second annual free Whānau Hauora Day on July 2026. Photo / Supplied
“Sometimes the biggest barrier isn’t whether help exists – it’s knowing where to find it or feeling comfortable enough to take that first step.
Remove barriers
“We wanted to remove those barriers and create a space where people could simply come along, have a chat and realise there are amazing people who genuinely want to help.”
More than 20 organisations came together under one roof, providing free information, resources, health advice and practical support at the event. Visitors could learn about bowel and breast screening, diabetes management, healthy eating, emergency preparedness, smoke alarm safety, mental health, family support services, voting enrolment and much more.
More than 250 people attended Katikati’s second annual free Whānau Hauora Day on July 2026. Photo / Supplied
Representatives from Civil Defence, You OK Bro?, Katikati Volunteer Fire Brigade, Oranga Tamariki, Katikati Community Centre and many other organisations spent the day speaking directly with whānau, answering questions, booking appointments and connecting people with ongoing support.
Free resources, food, fun
Free health resources, screening kits, toothbrushes, toothpaste, information packs and educational material were distributed, ensuring families left with practical tools they could take home and share with others.
The event also offered plenty of entertainment, with free kai (food), games, spot prizes and activities keeping tamariki (children) and adults engaged while naturally encouraging conversations with service providers.
Uilou said the relaxed atmosphere was one of the event’s greatest strengths.
“When people get the chance to meet the faces behind these organisations, they quickly realise they’re talking to some of the most caring, compassionate and generous people in our community. Those conversations can be the beginning of someone getting the support they need.”
More than 250 people attended Katikati’s second annual free Whānau Hauora Day on July 2026. Photo / Supplied
She said the success of Whānau Hauora Day was made possible by support from numerous community organisations and sponsors. Many contributed prizes, food and resources that helped make the event more accessible and enjoyable for local families.
Where to begin
“The support we’ve received … has been incredible,” Uilou said. “It shows what can happen when everyone comes together with the same goal – supporting the health and wellbeing of our community.
“Every year the event continues to grow, and that’s a reflection of the generosity and commitment of everyone involved.”
The event’s growth also reinforced the importance of bringing services directly into the community, creating opportunities for connection, education and early intervention, she said.
The rūnanga hoped the event’s success would continue to inspire more conversations around health and wellbeing, proving that sometimes all it takes to change a life is knowing where to begin.