For many young women, the journey towards self-discovery and empowerment often begins in unexpected places. For a pair of friends from Hillmorton High School attending the Active Wāhine programme at Pioneer Stadium each week, this journey has been nothing short of transformative.

Active Wāhine, a girls-only initiative aimed at promoting fitness, wellness, and self-confidence, has become a cornerstone of these friends’ weekly routines. Held in the vibrant and welcoming atmosphere of Pioneer Stadium, the programme not only encourages physical activity but also fosters a sense of community and mutual support among its participants.

Kyra Robinson & Dishti Mudaliar, both Year 12 students from Hillmorton High School, stumbled upon the programme while looking for a way to stay active outside of school hours.

Each session at Active Wāhine is carefully curated to cater to different fitness levels and interests. From yoga and Zumba to spin and circuit classes, the programme offers a variety of activities designed to keep participants engaged and motivated. Kyra & Dishti journey began in Term 1 and has continued on since. They have expressed that the programme has helped them understand more about being active and they have both enjoyed getting to do it with each other.

Getting to do the programme with each other is not only another chance for them to spend more time with each other but also push one another to try their best. When you walk into the group fitness classroom at Pioneer you cannot help but noticed the smiles and laughter on Kyra & Dishti’ faces every time, “It’s fun because I get to do it with my friend,” Kyra comments.

As their conversation winds down, Kyra & Dishti exchange a smile filled with shared memories and newfound confidence. Active Wāhine has not only provided them with a space to grow physically and mentally but has also forged a friendship strengthened by mutual support and encouragement.

For these two friends, and countless others like them, Active Wāhine is more than just a programme—it’s a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and enduring friendship.

Thank you Christchurch City Council for providing a space for our young wāhine to gather and thrive. Your commitment to creating accessible and welcoming environments has been invaluable to our programs’ success.

Active Wāhine is more than just a recreational programme; it’s a nurturing space designed specifically to empower young women. By offering a variety of fitness activities, Active Wāhine aims to engage girls in physical pursuits while fostering a sense of community and camaraderie. The programme strives to build confidence and self-esteem by encouraging participants to explore their capabilities in a supportive environment. Through this holistic approach, Active Wāhine not only promotes a healthy lifestyle but also equips girls with the tools they need to navigate challenges with resilience and self-assurance. It’s about more than just exercise—it’s about embracing individual strengths, celebrating achievements, and forging lasting connections that inspire personal growth and empowerment.

Thanks to Sport Canterbury’s Tu Manawa Fund for their support we have been able to expand our secondary school sports programs to reach more young people than ever before. Their support has truly made a difference in promoting active lifestyles and fostering community engagement among our youth.

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