Year two of Softball NZ’s High Deprivation project in Tairawhiti will commence 1 July. 

Year 2 is aimed at establishing a locally led delivery framework whilst capitalising on the momentum achieved in Year 1 by building capability and capacity in these communities so that they become self-sufficient and that the initiatives are sustainable. Year 2 will once again be managed by Regional Development Manager, Ray Noble. In addition, Ray will have two softball officers to support the school delivery. 

Year one saw softball delivered to 672 Tamariki aged between 5 - 18 in the Tairawhiti region, of which 655 identified as Māori. Locations and schools covered; Ruatoria, Te Araroa, Hicks Bay, Potaka, Te Karaka and Whatatutu. Collaboration with two credible Regional Sport Organisations (Poverty Bay Rugby and Sport Gisborne Tairawhiti) provided insights at a local level, shared their established local relationships and opportunities, and delivery and administration infrastructure support.

Teacher Quote
“Loved the softball resources in te reo and are able to use them in class time. Our older kids are now coaching our babies.”

Below are links to two videos that capture the impact in year one.
High Deprivation Project - Tamariki

A locally led softball approach in Te Karaka and Ruatoria