Published: 9 December, 2025
Kairuku Events 2026
Kairuku is our kaupapa to encourage, inspire, and reconnect Te Ātiawa whānau with the moana. Through a series of hands-on wānanga, we identify and support whānau interested in exploring and leading practices in and around the moana so that we can grow the confidence and skills of our next generation of kairuku — the divers and kaitiaki who will care for our waters for years to come.
In 2026 we return with three special wānanga for taiohi and whānau. See below the three 2026 wānanga catered to different age groups and skill levels across our rohe. Whether you’re taking your first breath through a snorkel or diving deep into freediving training, there’s a place for you in the Kairuku journey.
Kairuku Taiohi - Wānanga #1
14–16 January 2026 – Waikawa Marae
He wānanga tēnei mā ngā taiohi nō Te Ātiawa (12–18 ōna tau) e ratarata ana ki te moana.
Over three full days at Waikawa Marae, 10 taiohi aged 12-18 years will complete a breath-hold and freediving course with Ocean Hunter and take part in a kaimoana dive with He Kai Kei Aku Ringa.
Expect to be challenged — these are big days in and out of the water, building confidence, resilience, and diving skill. All wetsuits, gear, kai, accommodation, and local transport are provided.
A hands-on wānanga for taiohi who are ready to deep dive — into our moana and Ātiawatanga. Kia tere! Rēhitatia mai - get in quick as we have only 10 spots available. Registrations close 19 December, 2025. Register here now.
Kairuku Snorkel Skills Day - Wānanga #2
Saturday 31 January 2026 - Nayland Pool
Whānau snorkel skills session and BBQ for Te Ātiawa uri aged 5+. Learn to use snorkel gear, duck dive, and grow confidence in the wai. The perfect next step for new and returning Kairuku whānau — keep an eye out for registrations opening on 22 December 2025.
Kairuku Ki Kaiteretere - Wānanga #3
Saturday 28 February 2026 - Kaiteretere
A whānau snorkel day and a BBQ at home in Kaiteretere — bring the whānau, share kai, hear kōrero tuku iho, and explore our moana together. A day to celebrate whānau, connection, and our deep relationship with Kaiteretere.
Join us for the final part of the Kairuku journey — more details on how to register for this event coming soon.