Four people who have made significant community contributions – Janice Toko, Kerrie Wylie, Nui Ririnui and Wira Te Paa – were presented Wainuiomata Community Board Spirit Awards on 11 June. They were selected from the 18 nominations received by the board, a number that the Community Board Chair Te Awa Puketapu described as “awesome”.
Continued on page 2. The four
2025 Wainuiomata Spirit Award winners (from left) Kerrie Wylie, Janice Toko, Wira Te Paa and Nui Ririnui. Photo: Frank Neill.
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Dedication, passion and selfless work
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“It is a real honour to present you these awards,” Te Awa said.
“This year we received a truly inspiring number of nominations,” the Community Board’s Deputy Chair, Lesa Bingley, said when introducing the award presentation.
Each nomination “highlighted the dedication, passion and selfless work that makes Wainuiomata such a special place to live.
“It was a challenging task for the judging panel to select our final recipients as every single nominee is a testament to the thriving spirit of our community,” Lesa said.
Janice Toko, who runs “Toko in the Nui”, was presented her Spirit Award by Community Board member Leah Clark.
“ Tonight we have the immense privilege of recognising someone truly special,” Leah said when presenting the award.
Janice is “a born and bred Wainuiomata stalwart who embodies the spirit of generosity, commitment and genuine care.
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“For over two years Janice has been the driving force behind ‘Toko in the Nui’, her free, women-only bootcamp sessions held every Tuesday and Thursday morning at the Wainui Rugby Club.
“These aren’t just exercise classes. They are a vibrant, safe haven for the wahine toa of Wainuiomata.
“Imagine starting your day
surrounded by positive energy, pushing your limits and feeling completely secure. That’s the wairua Janice creates.
“These sessions have become increasingly popular, with a core group of 15 to 18 regulars, and they’re growing stronger.
“We have heard that one of the most beautiful aspects is how Janice fosters whanau connections, with many mums bringing their daughters along.
“This promotes not just physical health but also strengthens those vital relationships in a fun and active environment.
“The fact that these classes are absolutely free is amazing.
“It removes a significant barrier, allowing so many of our local wahine to priortise their health and well-being and to share that journey with their families and the wider community.
“She’s there twice a week, every week of the year, purely out of her commitment to our community.
“Janice is the kind of person who would truly give the shirt off her back for anyone in need.
“Janice, you are more than a fitness enthusiast, you are a mother, a community grounding force and a truly hearty person.
“You embody the very best of Wainuiomata,” Leah said.
“Thank you Janice for your incredible heart, your tireless dedication and for creating such a profound and positive impact on the lives of so many in our community.”
Kerrie Wylie was presented
her Spirit Award by Community Board member Daniel Chrisp.
“For many years Kerrie has been an exceptional leader for the Wainuiomata Brownies and more recently the Pippins,” Daniel said when presenting the award.
“Her journey with Girl Guiding is inspiring, having started as a girl herself before joining her mum in leading the unit.
“This deep-rooted connection to the organisation truly shines through in everything she does.
“Kerrie truly embodies the core values, promise and law of Girl Guiding in New Zealand.
“She goes above and beyond to ensure that all girls can participate in every activity, regardless of their abilities or backgrounds.
“Kerrie’s dedication to helping the girls achieve all their badges is remarkable.
“She understands the importance of that sense of accomplishment for every single Brownie.
“Kerrie is a familiar and cherished face in the Wainuiomata community.
“Whether she’s selling biscuits at Countdown, going door-todoor or ensuring the Wainuiomata Brownies always proudly participate in the Anzac parade, her commitment is unwavering.
“When other leaders have moved on Kerrie has been a steady hand, ensuring Brownies continues to thrive.
Continued on page 3
The 2025 Spirit Award winners with Wainuiomata Community Board members (back row from left): Daniel Chrisp, Kerrie Wylie, Gary Sue, Nui Ririnui and Lesa Bingley (front row from left) Te Awa Puketapu, Leah Clark, Janice Toko, Wira Te Paa and Cr Keri Brown.
Photo: Frank Neill.
Dedication, passion and selfless work
Continued from page 2
“Her recent initiative to open a Pippin unit for five and six year olds, simply because she didn’t want anyone to miss out, speaks volumes about her dedication.
“Despite having three children of her own, Kerrie always makes Brownies happen, consistently creating incredible opportunities for the girls.
“She organises regular camps and adventures, providing experiences that many of these girls might not otherwise get.
“Kerrie stays up to date with Girl Guilding New Zealand’s programme changes and a few years ago she wholeheartedly embraced the ‘Free Being Me’ badge, empowering girls to develop body confidence.
“She attends trainings, wider team meetings and is always willing to help out at activities outside of Wainuiomata, even helping her Brownies get there.
“Kerrie is incredibly humble, but we know that countless former Brownies fondly remember the activities and opportunities she provided.
“It is thanks to Kerrie and her mum’s perserverance, determination and willingness that girls in Wainuiomata have the chance to be part of Pippins and Brownies.
“Kerrie, you are a truly valued member of Girl Guiding New Zealand and an absolute pillar of our Wainuiomata community,” Daniel said.
Nui Ririnui was presented his Spirit Award by Community Board member Gary Sue.
“We ... acknowledge the amazing work of yet another Wainuiomata champion for his work in sport,” Gary said when making the presentation.
“Nui is a name synonymous with dedication in our community, particularly within the sporting arena.
“He continuously gives his time and aroha to countless teams across various codes, including touch football, tag football, Rugby League and Rugby Union.
“Not only does he coach club, school and representative teams, but he also runs the highly successful Rhino Touch club, fostering the game from juniors all the way through to masters.
“It’s no surprise that any team Nui is involved with achieves great success.
“His deep knowledge of each code and the high standards he sets for himself and for his players ensure that every team is exceptionally well prepared, whether stepping onto the training field or the playing field.
“What truly sets Nui apart is his ability to achieve so much with limited resources.
“In Wainuiomata proper training facilities for team sports are often scarce or fully booked, but Nui does’t let that stop him.
“You’ll find his teams training in small garage-sized ‘gyms’ or running the Wainui Hill or water tower – a testament to his resourcefulness and unwavering commitment.
“His mahi involves extensive travel around the Wellington region and the North Island, all while he manages his own concert business.
“And the most remarkable part?
All this is done as a volunteer.
“Looking at the list of roles he undertook in 2024-2025 alone it’s clear that Nui provides an almost 365-day service to our community.
“From head coaching multiple teams across different codes to his assistant coach, advisor and consultant roles his days are often full.
“This extraordinary dedication showcases his immense passion for the sports he’s involved in and the deep aroha he has for his community, especially our youth.
“Nui is a credit to his whanau and a true inspiration to us all.
“His commitment ensures that countless young people have the opportunity to participate, learn and excel in sport.
“It is with immense gratitude and admiration that we present
and Nui Ririnui. Photo: Frank Neill.
the Wainui Spirit Award to Nui.
“Thank you, Nui, for your incredible heart, your tireless dedication and for making such a profound and positive impact on the lives of so many in our community,” Gary said.
Wira Te Paa was presented her Spirit Award by the Wainuiomata Ward Councillor Keri Brown.
“Wira, you are a shining example of selflessness and community spirt,” Wira’s citation says.
“For many of us Saturdays mean a chance to relax and catch up on chores, but for Wira every Saturday is an opportunity to uplift our community.
“She tirelessly volunteers to run our community market, a vibrant hub that brings us all together.
“What’s truly remarkable is that Wira donates all the proceeds from the stallholders directly to our schools,” her citation says.
“Since 2000 she has donated over $7,000 to the schools,” Cr Brown said when presenting Wira her award.
“Think about that impact. Every delicious pastry, every handcrafted item sold directly supports the education and future of our tamariki,” her citation says.
“It’s an incredible commitment that makes a tangible difference in the lives of our young ones.
“But Wira’s kindness doesn’t
stop there.
“She is also an indispensable part of our Kaumatua Day, showing deep respect and care for our elders.
Each year she goes above and beyond, personally purchasing the beautiful bowls for our soup, ensuring our kaumatua enjoy their meal with dignity and comfort.
“She provides delicious biscuits, adding a touch of sweetness to their day.
“And not only does she give her time freely, but she also offers a profound act of aroha by spoon-feeding our kaumatua, a gesture that speaks volumes about her compassion and dedication.
“Wira also has a special place in her heart for our youth.
“She quietly and consistently provides money to our young ones to buy food and clothes, offering a lifeline and a helping hand when it’s most needed.
“It’s these quiet acts of generosity that often make the biggest difference, empowering our youth with dignity and support.
“And for those who face the challenge of getting around, especially over the hill, Wira is often the first to offer a free ride, ensuring no one is left stranded.
“This simple act of kindness connects our community, building bridges and fostering a sense of
Matariki
Wainuiomata’s two Matariki celebrations will take place tomorrow, 19 June, and Friday 20 June.
The first celebration, Ko Puanga raua ko Matariki – Pohutukawa, will begin at 6am on 19 June with a Hautapu on Pito One Beach next to the Oars and opposite Cuba Street lights. After the Hatapu there will be kai at the Petone Beach Kindergarten. The celebration will then move to the town centre in Queen Street, where the programme will run from 10:30am to 10pm.
Matariki will be celebrated at the Wainuiomata Marae on Friday 20 June.
It will begin with the Hautapu Ceremony at 5:30am – a sacred dawn ceremony to honour Matariki and remember those who passed away during the year.
Following the Hautapu Ceremony there will be a community breakfast. The Matariki celebration at the Marae will also include a night market, that will run from 4pm to 9pm. As well as stalls there will be entertainment by local musicians and entertainers and a competition to find the 2025 Omata Idol.
belonging.
“Wira, you are more than just a volunteer.
“You are the embodiment of a beautiful, kindhearted lady who enriches every life she touches.
“Your dedication to our community market, your unwavering support for our kaumatua, your generosity towards our young people and your willingness to help anyone in need truly set you apart.”
The four 2025 Wainuiomata Spirit Award winners cutting the celebratory cake (from left) Kerrie Wylie, Wira Te Paa, Janice Toko
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Cr Brown seeking re-election
Councillor Keri Brown has confirmed she will seek a third term on Hutt City Council, reaffirming her commitment to Wainuiomata and its people.
“It’s been a privilege to represent our community,” Cr Brown says.
“Together, we’ve made real progress.
“The town centre upgrade has breathed
new life into our local economy, attracting new eateries, Mitre 10, and a wider range of businesses to our suburb.”
Cr Brown acknowledges that growth brings both opportunities and pressures.
She says continued investment in infrastructure – especially water – is essential.
“Wainuiomata is defying that trend. Our town centre is thriving, and new businesses are taking root.
“We must keep advocating for smart, sustainable growth that benefits future generations.”
Cr Brown points to upgrades in parks and recreational facilities as another source of local pride.
“We need to plan ahead and act decisively on our water infrastructure. I back the new Local Water Done Well entity because it offers a chance to improve outcomes and reduce rates costs.
“Future-proofing our systems is critical for Wainuiomata’s wellbeing.”
She also highlights the need to protect core services as the suburb evolves.
“Health and safety services must not only be safeguarded. They need to grow with us. These supports are the backbone of a growing community.”
A long-time advocate for Wainuiomata, including the successful campaign to retain the Community Board, Cr Brown says strong local representation is more important than ever.
“Too many outer suburbs are neglected and left behind.
“I’m thrilled to see new changing rooms and toilets at Wise Park, and the much-needed upgrade underway at Hugh Sinclair Park. These enhancements will help increase enjoyment, and pride in our neighbourhoods.”
She also celebrates Wainuiomata’s unique spirit.
“Our suburb has a proud culture of care, creativity, and community. From Grey Power and kaumatua/elders’ days to volunteer-led fitness and sports groups.
“I’m committed to the next generation to carry that legacy forward.” Cr Brown says staying connected with residents will continue to be at the heart of her work. “I’ll keep door knocking to listen to your views. If I haven’t reached you yet, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. My door is always open.”
Cr Keri Brown. Photo: Supplied.
Football Reserves win emphatically
By Ryan Imray
The Wainuiomata Football Club has 32 teams, juniors and seniors combined, however the weather during the week meant only three of those teams were able to play last weekend with everyone else's games being cancelled.
The Reserves were the only team to play on Saturday as they welcomed North Wellington to Richard Prouse Park.
Adam Ross opened the scoring with just 6 seconds on the clockas his attempt from half way at the kick off caught everyone off guard and landed in the back of the net. That was the first of seven first half goals for the hosts as they were clinical in front of goal.
The second half didn't produceas many goals as the first half but Wainui were able to keep a clean sheet and score another three as the game ended up finishing 10-0 to Wainuiomata.
Adam Ross finished with four goals, LachlanHarris scored three, and Braydon Gelderblom and Yvan Sapele scored a goal each between an own goal.
The result helped Wainuiomata maintain their position in third place on the table, narrowing the gap to four points between them and first placed Upper Hutt.
On Sunday the Under 12 Girls Only Remutaka side were the only Wainuiomata junior team to play and they travelled to Johnsonville to face Onslow Madras in a very early kick off.
Vicky Johansen's side got off to the perfect start after re-grading as they won the game 3-1.
Ariella Lahood, who recently has played as the goalkeeper, scored her first goal of the season and Kaylee Fussell was unstoppable as she scored the other two.
The third and final game of the weekend saw the Women's team hosting Island Bay.
With three points separating the top four teams chasing mid season promotion and two of those sides playing each other, Wainuiomata knew it was important to get theee points and Arnika Lahood's early goal got Wainui off to a great start.
Despite the half being a tightly contested game, it remained 1-0 at half time.
The second half was pretty even with both sides playing good football but Wainui took their chances in front of goal when they came.
Bailey Te Maipi made it 2-0 with a strike from distance before Mangala Kasongo made it 3-0 with some individual brilliance.
Katie Hawley put the cherry on top as she made it 4-0 with her first goal back from injury.
That result and with the help of other results, saw Wainui reclaim the number one spot on the table going into the final weekend of the first round.
Women’s Rugby team makes the final
By Frank Neill
The Wainuiomata premier women’s Rugby team has qualified for final of the Izzy Ford Cup.
This follows their convincing 38-15 victory over Avalon in the semi-final, played at William Jones Park on 14 June.
Wainuiomata will play Paremata-Plimmerton for the cup on 21 June.
The match will be played at Rugby League Park, Wellington, with the kick off at 11am.
Mariah Nicholls was outstanding for Wainuiomata, scoring one of the team’s six
tries and being awarded three most valuable player points.
Aamai Roberts, Pasikalia Tuiatua, Mary Ann Collins, Hoana Hori-Hohepa and Zoe Clark also touched down.
Acacia Claridge-Te Iwimate kicked four conversions and won two MVP points while Zoe Clark gained one point.
The men’s premier team also recorded a convincing victory on 21 June.
They defeated the Avalon Wolves 45-10 at Fraser Park.
Wainuiomata’s next match sees them play Tawa at Lyndhurst Park on 21 June.
Ulalei top of the table
By Vaegaau Isaac
In a top of the table clash in the Premier 1 grade, with both sides unbeaten heading into this game this was built up to be a cracker of a game between Ulalei Aute and St Orans Old Girls. Leading by 6 at half time, Ulalei Aute turned up the heat in the second half, raising their intensity and outclassing the opposition to run away for an emphatic victory 67-51. In another top of the table clash, Ulalei Moso’oi was too strong for Naenae Collegians, winning 42-25. Moso’oi stamped their authority on the game from the outset, taking an unassailable 15-8 lead after the first quarter. Ulalei Malili continued their winning
form with another explosive start, taking a 12-3 soul destroying first quarter lead over Convent Old Girls and storming to a well deserved 35-19 victory. Aute, Malili and Moso’oi all sit on top of the table of their respective grades with two games to go in the first round. Ulalei Pualulu was involved in a tight contest early on against Maidstone United with only one goal separating the sides at half time, Pualulu up 13-12. The defensive duo of Moriah Sopoaga and Katie Muaiavashored up their defence, applying pressure and creating turn over ball for their team which was finished off by sharp shooters Drew McLeod and the sister act shooting combination of Akenese and Jacqui McCarthyto
win 28-19.
Lions topple table topper
By Frank Neill
The Wainuiomata Lions scored an outstanding victory over the table topping Toa team on 14 June. The Lions surprised everyone but their most ardent fans when they completely dominated the match, winning 38-12.
Even the home ground advantage of Onepoto Park was not enough for Toa, who trailed the Lions 10-4 at half time. By the end of the match the Lions had scored seven tries to Toa’s two.
It was a tough day at the office for Puataunofo and Fuesina going down respectively to Sacred Heart College and Te Rito. Ulalei Laga’ali put up a good fight showing glimpses of brilliance against the unbeaten Stokes Valley Rugby before going down 32-21. Ulalei Wainuiomata Netball is grateful to the support of the local businesses that supported them in their recent fundraiser: Hedz Hairsalon, Time Insurance, Master Upholstery Experts, Tepora Stowers @ Redcoats Professionals Real Estate, Wellington Pipelines, Design & Build Homes, Ninox Construction, Ray Wallace @ Ray White Real Estate, Mayor Campbell Barry and Muzzy Shirts. Follow
It was an important victory for the Lions, too, as it saw them climb the table into fifth place.
That places the Lions in a much better position to be one of the four teams that qualify for a semi-final berth. They will be very keen to make the semi-
ACROSS
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32. Proper. (3)
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42. Musical work. (4)
46. Fraudulent. (9)
48. Genuine. (9)
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finals too, as it will give them the opportunity to become the Wellington Rugby League champions for the third successive year. The Lions won the Appleton Shield as champions last year when they defeated the St George Dragons 40-30 in the final.
John Wharepapa-Rawiri was in fine form for the Lions on 14 June, scoring two tries.
Meealofa Lauvi, Regan Gray, Aleki Leola, Nesta Waitoa and Eruwera Tu also dotted down.
Joshua Le’afa-Paki kicked four conversions and Tiaki Nager kicked one conversion.
There is no Rugby League on 21 June, owing to the Matariki holiday. The Lions next match is against the Randwick Kingfishers at Frederick Wise Park on 28 June. Kick off is at 2:30pm.
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2. Style. (7)
3. Not mature. (6)
Religious assembly. (8)
Disorderly. (7)
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Opening. (8)
Punctilious. (11) 10. Hornless cow. (5)
Extend. (5)
Suffers. (7)
Lout. (3)
For November 17, 2004
Border. (3)
Butter muslin. (11)
Lessen. (5)
Route. (7)
Bailey Te Maipi celebrates her second half goal for the Wainuiomata women. Photo: Imray’s Snaps.
Wainuiomata women’s MVP Mariah Nicholls making another great run. Photo: T-Paul Gale.
