Sport Manawatū

15/09/2026

What can happen when tamariki are given the freedom to create their own play?

Thanks to support from the Quick Release Play Fund, Tokomaru School added loose parts and play materials that are now used every day by tamariki of all ages.

From building forts with timber and tarps to creating with tyres, ropes and blocks, these simple resources are sparking creativity, problem-solving, collaboration and endless imagination.

💬 "I like using the materials to be creative."
🏗️ "I like the wood because we can make forts out of it."

This is exactly the kind of impact the Quick Release Play Fund is designed to support, helping more tamariki play, connect, create and thrive.

Have an idea that could get more tamariki playing? Applications for the Quick Release Play Fund are now open.

More information is available on our website 👇https://www.sportmanawatu.org.nz/play-week-2026

14/09/2026

Kupu of the Day: Hoea tō waka which means Go for it! 💪

Someone lining up to take the penalty? About to take a shot? Stepping up to try something new? give them a confidence boost with Hoea tō Waka!

13/09/2026

Kupu of the Day: Mahi tika ana which means Great Work 👏

To celebrate Te Wiki o te Reo Māori, we'll be sharing simple phrases throughout the week that coaches, parents, teammates and supporters can use to create positive sidelines!

Whether its a great pass, a awesome result, or someone is working really hard, let them know with a Mahi tika ana!

09/09/2026

What happens when you give tamariki more opportunities to play?

Last year, Huia Range School used a Quick Release Play Fund grant to bring a new playhouse to life. An added bonus was the involvement of senior students, who took ownership of the build, developing teamwork, problem-solving skills, and a sense of pride in creating something for younger tamariki.

Today, the playhouse is a hub for imaginative play, storytelling, creativity, and connection. It helps children build friendships, feel included, and express themselves in their own way. 🏠

This is exactly the kind of impact the Quick Release Play Fund is designed to support, creating more opportunities for play, creativity, connection, and belonging in our communities. 💚

Have an idea that could get more tamariki playing? Applications for the Quick Release Play Fund are now open.

More information is available on our website 👇https://www.sportmanawatu.org.nz/play-week-2026

09/09/2026

09/09/2026

Netball Manawatū Summer Social Netball Competition kicks off mid-October - the perfect way to get your team back on court, have a laugh, get moving and enjoy some summer vibes!

Get involved - Details below!

SUMMER SOCIAL NETBALL IS BACK!

Longer days, warmer nights and netball just for the FUN of it.

Our Summer Social Netball Competition kicks off mid-October - the perfect way to get your team back on court, have a laugh, get moving and enjoy some summer vibes!

No pressure. No fuss. Just good games, good people and plenty of fun.

👟 Get your crew together
🏐 Hit the court
☀️ Soak up the summer
🥳 Have a whole lot of fun!

Who’s in?! Tag your team and start rounding up the crew!

Register online 👇
https://www.netballmanawatu.org.nz/competitions/summer-social-competition

09/09/2026

2026 Steve's Tyre Service + Auto Care Secondary School Sports Awards nominations are closing soon🏆

If you know any student athletes and sporting leaders demonstrating outstanding achievements and contributions across the Manawatū region, reach out to your school sports coordinator who can submit nominations on your behalf.

Nominations close 17 September.
For more information visit: www.sportmanawatu.org.nz

02/09/2026

🏉 Celebrating 140 Years of Manawatū Rugby

Sport Manawatū CEO Kelly Shanks was honoured to attend Manawatū Rugby Union's 140th Anniversary Celebration, marking an incredible milestone for one of our region's most enduring sporting organisations.

The evening was a powerful reminder that great sport is built on passionate people and strong community support. While there was pride in reflecting on 140 years of history, there was also excitement for the future, with women's and men's rugby celebrated together as the next chapter of the game.

A fantastic celebration of the people, connections and community spirit that continue to make Manawatū Rugby thrive.

Congratulations to all the volunteers, administrators, supporters and sponsors who has contributed to the legacy of Manawatū Rugby over the past 140 years.
Cr Rachel Bowen Nick Crosswell Doug Tietjens

31/08/2026

What would your tamariki love to do during Play Week? Let's fund their fun!

Applications for the Quick Release Play Fund are now open - helping bring children's play aspirations to life.
💰 Up to $1,000 available
🎈 For community-led play activations
👧 Benefiting tamariki aged 5+ years
📅 To be delivered during Play Week | Tākaro Mai Aotearoa this October

Let's create more spaces, opportunities, and moments for tamariki to play, imagine, and thrive.

More information is available on our website.
https://www.sportmanawatu.org.nz/play-week-2026