PĀNUI
NEWS
NGĀ TĀNGATA: WAYNE & VICKY'S JOURNEY!
01 / 04 / 2025
At He Waka Tapu, we celebrate the many stories of our tāngata whaiora as they work towards their health and wellbeing goals. This week, we’re sharing the journeys of Vicky and Wayne — two individuals who’ve shown real determination to improve their physical and mental health through movement, support, and community.
Vicky’s journey – moving through the pain.
Vicky lives with rheumatoid arthritis and often spoke about the daily challenges it brings. She knew that staying active was key, not just for her body but for her mindset too, so she reached out for support to help keep her motivated and on track.
We started small, beach walks, strolls through Travis Wetlands, and hydrotherapy at QEII. When she couldn’t make it in person, we’d check in with regular phone calls to keep the momentum going. Over time, she’s built confidence and now follows a weekly fitness plan that balances movement with managing discomfort.
A big highlight for Vicky was taking part in the Crusaders’ Long Run/Walk, something she’d dreamed about doing for years.
Representing the He Waka Tapu team, she walked for 2 hours and 15 minutes straight, covering 8km with hardly any breaks. We made sure she stayed fuelled, hydrated and rested when needed. Watching her cross that finish line was honestly powerful, she was buzzing and rightly proud.
“A big highlight for Vicky was taking part in the Crusaders’ Long Run/Walk — something she’d dreamed about doing for years. Representing the He Waka Tapu team, she walked for 2 hours and 15 minutes straight, covering 8km with hardly any breaks.”
Wayne’s story – rebuilding from the ground up.
Wayne was hit by a car in 2008, and his recovery was long and tough. He lost strength and mobility, and spent six months sleeping in an armchair. When we started working together at Tinana Gym, the goal was simple — help him rebuild, one step at a time.
We focused on full-body workouts using dumbbells and resistance bands, making sure to keep things safe and steady. Managing his type 2 diabetes meant we also factored in breaks, nutrition, hydration, and regular blood sugar checks.
Like Vicky, Wayne set his sights on the Crusaders’ Long Run/Walk. And he smashed it — walking 6km, the furthest he’s gone since his accident. He took breaks when he needed, had a few laughs with the crew along the way, and helped our team clock up a total of 195km. He’s already keen for the next challenge — some more walks at Travis Wetlands and maybe even the Pae Ora Walk in October.
Wayne and Vicky’s stories are reminders of what’s possible with the right support, a bit of consistency, and a whole lot of heart. We’re proud to walk alongside them and can’t wait to see where their journeys take them next.
Ka mau te wehi, Vicky and Wayne – you’re an inspiration to us all.
Community Support, Health Coaches and Health Imporvement Practitioners
Vicky and Wayne accessed these services though the Te Tumu Waiora programme. Traditional roles within the practice are complemented by health coaching and Health Improvement Practitioners.
In addition. Where DHB contracts allow, access to He Waka Tapu community support kaimahi is available. Addressing wider psychosocial needs in the community.
All aligned around an integrated and holistic primary and community approach to wellbeing.
All appointments with Te Tumu Waiora are free off charge. Contact us to organise an appointment.
CCC WALKING FESTIVAL: WHĀNAU HĪKOI | TRAVIS WETLAND
DATE: Sunday 27th April 2025
MEET UP TIME: 11am – Information Kiosk
WHERE: Travis Wetland
PARKING: The main car park is on Beach Road.
DISTANCE: 3.4 km
Join us for this whānau friendly event, limited numbers – FREE kai following the hikoi.
TIME: 1 hour return
ACCESS: Bikes, scooters (electric and manual) and skateboards are prohibited from Travis Wetland so as not to scare wildlife
TOILETS: Located near the information kiosk
DOGS: To protect wildlife, dogs are prohibited from anywhere in Travis Wetland
