Stronger together.

Kōtahitanga 🖤🤍❤️

These words hold deep meaning, not just for Waitangi Day but for everything we stand for at Pūmanawa Āwhina.

Kōtahitanga, the principle of unity and collective strength, is at the heart of our kaupapa. It is about coming together as a whānau, supporting one another, and moving forward as one. Through sport, recreation, and community engagement, we create spaces where everyone feels connected, valued, and empowered.

On and off the field, we see Kōtahitanga in action—whānau teams standing side by side, sharing moments of triumph and challenge, lifting each other up through encouragement, and fostering a sense of belonging. It’s in the hands raised for a team cheer, the laughter shared on the sidelines, and the commitment to inclusivity in all we do.

But Kōtahitanga isn’t just about being together—it’s about how we come together. This is where the AWHI Programme plays a key role in embedding unity, respect, and positivity within our sporting and community spaces. Originally designed as Touch New Zealand’s Positive Support Sideline Programme, AWHI has evolved into something much greater. Its core values Attitude, Whānau, Harmony, and Integrity—are a reflection of the behaviours and attitudes that strengthen not just our whānau, but entire communities.

At Pūmanawa Āwhina events, the AWHI Promise is a fundamental part of ensuring a supportive and inclusive environment for all. Coaches, managers, administrators, and now even players actively commit to fostering positive spaces where competition and community go hand in hand. This growing commitment to AWHI shows that athletes, whānau, and supporters are not just participating in sport—they are embracing a movement that values unity, respect, and fair play.

As we acknowledge Waitangi Day, we celebrate Kōtahitanga in its truest form—whānau, friends, and communities coming together, guided by the values of AWHI. Because when we uplift each other, we create spaces where everyone thrives.

He waka eke noa—we’re all in this together. ❤️🤍🖤