More than 1000 netball players, ranging from our very youngest primary school tamariki right through to senior level players, step on the courts at Netball Manurewa each season.
They are supported by an amazing army of whānau, volunteer coaches, administrators, umpires, netball development specialists and the incredible team at the Netball Manurewa Community and Events Centre.
And with indoor and 10 outdoor netball courts, two basketball courts, a facility that can be hired by other groups and families, and its new half-size football pitch (a replica of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup Unity Pitch that travelled the country), Netball Manurewa is meeting its goal of being a multisport venue that can be used by the community all year round.
But a love of sport is not the only thing driving this thriving organisation. Netball General Manager Karla Matua says the team prides itself on providing a safe and welcoming whānau environment, where tīkanga and te ao Māori are pivotal in all they do.
Wiri Licensing Trust is a long-time partner of Netball Manurewa and was delighted to provide support when the organisation applied for a grant to Trillian to install the Unity Pitch. The colourful pitch is a great asset to the area.
General Manager Kim Green is proud to be connected to an organisation that is always pushing the boundaries and looking for ways to engage the extended whānau in sports and recreation.
“I consider myself very lucky to have worked closely with such passionate, genuine and giving volunteers.”
Currently, the Wiri Licensing Trust sponsors Netball Manurewa’s Summer League competition and goal post pads and we’ve previously sponsored uniforms for key volunteers. “We love being special guests at the annual Dress Parade event, but the Trustees and I are going to need to some training before we attempt to shoot the opening goal of the season again. Our netball skills are sadly lacking,” Kim says.
Head to Netball Manurewa’s website to find out more about the Summer League and how to enter a team.
“It’s a fabulous, fun competition that gives friends and families a chance to catch up and enjoy a laugh together. I look forward to seeing some of these players join us at Woodside to recover post-match.”
The assistance the Trust provides gives Netball Manurewa the financial ability to provide services in the local area, says Netball Development Manager Briar Martindale.
“We see Wiri Licensing Trust as an important asset to our community.”
Netball Manurewa operates in a low socio-economic environment, with many members of the community working as public servants or in labour-intensive positions that service the greater Auckland region, she says.
“A lot of our demographic are migrants or whānau who have moved to Auckland from Northland for mahi.”
For many people in the community, sport and physical activity are not a priority, says Briar, as putting food on their table and a roof over their heads has to come first.
“We continue to strive to have one of the most competitive fee structures for participating in netball, New Zealand wide. We can only do this with the support of organisations such as the Wiri Licensing Trust.”
Wiri Licensing Trust wants to connect with local community groups and organisations that are doing great work in our hood to understand how we can better support you – email us on info@wiritrust.org.nz.
