Wāhine Pamper Day, A Celebration of Healing and Connection

Our Wāhine Pamper Day was a stunning reminder of what happens when wāhine come together to uplift, nurture, and celebrate one another. Around 18–20 wāhine joined us for a day dedicated to rest, reflection, and selfcare with free haircuts, nails, waewae mirimiri, and a chance to experience somatic therapy.

The atmosphere was full of laughter, kōrero, and aroha. As we shared kai and stories, we reflected on our journeys, some just beginning with us, others who have walked alongside Te Hono o Ngā Waka for the past five years. Each wahine brought her own story of growth, resilience, and transformation, and together we created a beautiful kupenga (net) of connection and support.

This day wasn’t just about pampering , it was about manaakitanga, whanaungatanga, and recognizing the strength of wāhine who hold so much for their whānau and communities. Kupenga is about weaving those threads together, strengthening each strand through aroha and shared experience.

We left feeling lighter, restored, and deeply connected. The kōrero, the laughter, the care, all reminders that when wāhine fill their own cups, they have even more to pour back into their whānau.

And yes, by popular demand, we’ll definitely be doing this again! These moments of celebration and healing are what keep our kaupapa strong.

He wāhine, he whenua, ka ngaro te tangata- Without women and land, humanity is lost.