Whanaungatanga Through Basketball

 

 

Whanaungatanga and wellbeing look different for everyone – not only for whānau, but for our kaimahi too.

Sometimes supporting wellbeing means recognising the things that bring people joy, create connection and encourage meaningful time together.

When Karaumata learnt that Sonny and his son, Peter, shared a passion for basketball, she saw an opportunity to build on something they already loved. Basketball became more than an activity – it was a way to support their physical wellbeing while creating space for connection, fun and whanaungatanga.

Together with Bruce, Karaumata helped create a space at home where Sonny and Peter could shoot some hoops, stay active and enjoy time together. It also gave kaimahi another way to connect with them through a shared interest, strengthening relationships in a natural and meaningful way.

For our kaimahi, supporting whānau wellbeing isn’t always about programmes, appointments or formal interventions. Sometimes it begins with noticing what matters to someone, listening to what they enjoy and finding practical ways to encourage more of it in their everyday lives.

These seemingly small moments can make a real difference. Sharing an activity, having a laugh, learning together, encouraging one another or simply spending time alongside each other can help build trust, strengthen relationships and create a greater sense of belonging.

For Sonny and Peter, basketball provides an opportunity to connect as father and son while doing something they genuinely enjoy. For Karaumata and Bruce, it offers another way to walk alongside them, share in those moments and nurture relationships grounded in genuine connection and whanaungatanga.

It’s a reminder that supporting wellbeing can be simple, personal and shaped around the people themselves. What works for one whānau or kaimahi may look completely different for another.

And sometimes, wellbeing looks like a basketball hoop, a ball, a bit of friendly competition and time spent together.