Hīkoi for Hope brings community together for connection, remembrance and hope
Whāingaroa is invited to come together on Saturday 7 November for Hīkoi for Hope, a community day focused on mental health, connection, remembrance and hope for better days ahead.
Hosted by Tūmanako Whāingaroa, the local suicide awareness and support group, the day runs from 10am to 2pm at Stewart St Hall and lawn, with the hīkoi setting off at 10.30am.
The Hīkoi for Hope is an opportunity to walk together, acknowledge the realities of mental health and create space for conversations that can sometimes be difficult to have.
It is also a chance to remember loved ones who have passed. During the hīkoi, people will have the opportunity to release a kawakawa leaf into the harbour in remembrance. Back at the hall, tea candles can also be lit in acknowledgement of those we carry with us.
This year’s event falls on election day, with organisers hoping people might make the hīkoi part of their day alongside casting their vote.
The idea of hope for the future and hope for better days ahead felt particularly fitting — whether that means hope for ourselves, our whānau or our wider community.
Following the walk, everyone is invited to spend time together on the lawn at Stewart St Hall. There will be information about local support services, live music, wellbeing activities, games for the whole whānau and some friendly ponies to meet.
A free community BBQ and salads, prepared with support from TimeBank Raglan and Neighbours Aotearoa, will also be available.
There is no need to have a particular reason for coming along. You might be walking in memory of someone, supporting someone you care about, looking for connection or simply wanting to be part of a community that makes space for talking about mental health.
Hīkoi for Hope
Saturday 7 November
10am–2pm
Stewart St Hall & Lawn
Hīkoi departs at 10.30am
Haere mai – all are welcome.
Anyone who would like to support or contribute to the event can contact Teresa Morgan at Raglan Medical Centre on 021 242 0114 or teresa.morgan@raglanmedical.co.nz
