Netball Boot Camp

24/08/2026

21 years of age, 4 times.
Tomorrow I would be celebrating 21 years of age, four times. The journies have been memorable. The first 21 years under the majestic mountain naki with milking cows, dairy factory work, and all the social networks of the times. Table tennis, indoor bowls, tennis, rugby. and of course visiting Opunake beach, contracting hay making.
Those were busy days and far different to the pressures of today.
National Service kicked in and this was a huge wake up to many not familiar with living and working in a constructive and disciplined environment. 0600 feet on the floor, fatigues, personal ablution, dress, March to breakfast.
2200 lights out. Duty Instructors will check for compliance.
This made it easy entering the N.Z.Police College at Trentham. 28 Prater Recruit Wing. The beginning of an amazing and challenging period. A huge gap of life with service that spans many cities and smaller towns. Met a gorgeous young lady and we have been together for 61 years.
Toast Masters, Board and PTA roles at 6 School's and Colleges, and, in amongst that, Judge marching.
People's lives are busy and it is a privilege to work with martial artists and netballers .
21 years x 4 is awesome. My mother says I was born on the 25th, but the New Zealand Government records me on the 26th. SO, we celebrate both days.
Best wishes, and stay well.
Whiro Ratahi

15/08/2026

Netball Boot Camp training today.
Canceled
The drizzle is persistent, steady, and Met Service indicates that it is not likely to improve. In fact the graphics trends upwards. It makes sense to cancel.
Training is a personal commitment and programme such as Boot Camp is merely a vehicle for individuals and groups to gather in a structured setting to improve.
The sheer beauty is working with individuals who are determined regardless of akill-set to further test themselves. Over the weeks, months , improvement is incremental, one piece set at a time. Once merged with the training via the normal school coach and team, growth becomes true.
To the many young participants and parents who braved Boot Camp training thus far, well done.
"Train hard, game easy'
(Sensei Steve Wass-Aikido Master)
With best regards
Whiro Ratahi Facilitator

15/08/2026

Tomorrow Sunday the 16th August is scheduled the final boot camp training for the winter competitions. Next Saturday are the final games and it is timely to wind down.
Weather permitting we will have a BBQ cooked sausages and drinks, a nice reward for those who turned out.
So...let's finish strongly.
In appreciation, best wishes for the support since the second week in January.
Regards Whiro Ratahi Facilitator

10/08/2026

**Civic Awards 2026**

Nathaniel our netball team captain asks “Why, was there no training on Tuesday?”
Me : “Had an important engagement more important than netball training.”
Nathaniel asks : “What sort of engagement is more important than netball training?”
Me : Civic Award Ceremony with the Mayor.”
Nathaniel : “……………That’s okay then.”

What a fabulous occasion and so thrilled those nearest to me were able to be present and share these special moments.

Quite humbling to be given an award because we volunteers do things without expectation:
• A thank you would be nice.
• A flat white at a local café be awesome.
• A recipient of such an award and badge is way up there.

Award ceremony speeches.
Finger food.
Mix and mingle.
A huge gratitude for the hundreds of martial artists and the vast netball communities whose presence and participation over the years directly influenced and impacted on this award.

Investigator Penny took the time and initiative to gather pertinent information then forwarded the nomination. This speaks highly of her clarity and trust in what she believes to be true.

The Civic Award and recognition is appreciated.

In the meantime:
• Martial arts training continues as Grade Tests roll out this month.
• Netball boot camps Sundays and 3 training sessions per week.
“Life goes on”.

With blessings
Whiro Ratahi

25/07/2026

Overcast but fine.
Netball Boot Camp training today is on.
Reminder
> MIS courts on Redwood Street in Upper Hutt
> sensible clothing for physical activity
> fingernails trimmed and smoothed
> jewelry
> Koha is always appreciated
Be the best we can be.
Regards Whiro Ratahi Facilitator

18/07/2026

Enjoying the holidays, netball training.
Just a quick reminder that Netball Boot Camp is on tomorrow Sunday 19th of July
> 10.30am thru noon
> MIS courts on Redwood Street Upper Hutt
> all ages and experiences are welcome
> sensible clothing for physical activity
> own drink bottles and towel
> Koha is always appreciated
A beautiful sunny day today and we trust tomorrow will be the same.
Competition games are on next Saturday and Boot Camp programme is the opportunity to refresh your talents.
With best regards
Whiro Ratahi Facilitator

14/07/2026

Netball Bootcamp

📍 Where: Maidstone Intermediate
🕥 When: Sundays | 10:30am – 12:00pm
💛 Cost: Koha

All skill levels are welcome in a fun, supportive environment.

👍 Follow Netball Boot Camp for the latest updates, announcements and any weather-related changes.

Bring a drink bottle, wear comfortable sports gear and we’ll see you on the court!

30/06/2026

22/06/2026

A Netballer's Paradise
Yesterday's netball Boot Camp training was a memorable experience for the many young and a bit more mature who accepted the challenge and participated.
The key starting point really is from Daniel and Renaye Huia of Ray White who reached out. Both are committed to supporting chosen events and we are eternally grateful that the Boot Camp programme earned their favour.
They negotiated arrangements, attended in person, and at a later stage Daniel had to tap out to fulfill an Open House commitment.
The cream and ultimate value was having 4 current Pulse Netballers at our event. Lili, Holly, Khiarna, and Ainsleyana.
Our on court briefing was "You have a blank canvas and use your wisdom and value to move forward"
Wow. Warm up routine, stretches, ball handling, catching and passing, static, forward and side movements, pulling the ball in, stance, last moment flick of the wrist, positioning, warm down, operated in 4 separate stations signing posters.
As volunteer coaches we cover drills and netball routines. The huge take-aways is how these talented professionals interacted in a calm ,direct yet enduring manner.
Wow. Everyone had a blast
The weather angels gave us great weather although through Isabel and Shane the Heretaunga College events centre was our fall back position.
So, thank you Daniel and Renaye Huia of Ray White
Thank you our Pulse Netballers for sharing knowledge and experience.
Well done team Netballers and supporters.
This is a blessing netball Paradise.
With best regards
Whiro Ratahi
Humble Facilitator

21/06/2026

What an incredible weekend at our Netball Bootcamp!

A huge thank you to Whiro (aka Mr Ratahi), who works tirelessly to deliver these amazing bootcamps. There is so much work that goes on behind the scenes before, during and after every session. From planning and preparation to coaching, mentoring and ensuring every player gets the most out of the experience.

Bootcamps like these are invaluable. They provide players with the opportunity to learn new skills, strengthen existing ones, build confidence and gain a deeper understanding of the game. The knowledge, encouragement and experience shared help our young athletes continue to grow both on and off the court.

A special thank you also to Daniel to finding us and both Renaye and Daniel from Renaye Huia of Ray White for supporting Bootcamp this weekend. Your support of community sport and young athletes is greatly appreciated. What stands out about Renaye and Daniel is that their commitment to the community extends far beyond this event. They are constantly giving back, supporting local initiatives and helping create opportunities for others. Much of what they do happens quietly behind the scenes, but it certainly does not go unnoticed. We are incredibly grateful for your generosity, community spirit and support.

Thank you to the amazing Pulse Netball players Holly, Lili, Ainsleyana and Khiarna for spending time with our players, sharing your knowledge and inspiring the next generation of netballers. Having elite athletes willing to give back in this way creates memories and learning opportunities that the girls will carry with them for a long time. Your willingness to share your skills, experience and passion for the game inspires every player who attends. The girls absolutely love learning from athletes they look up to and the impact you have extends far beyond the court.

A heartfelt thank you also to all the parents, grandparents and caregivers who support these young athletes. Whether it's arranging transport, giving up your weekends, cheering from the sidelines, or simply encouraging them to pursue their goals, your support makes opportunities like this possible. Thank you for investing in your young people and helping them grow both as players and as individuals.

To everyone who contributes their time, energy, expertise and support—thank you. Together, we are helping develop not only better netballers, but also confident, capable young people.

We couldn't do it without you! 💙🏐