Purpose
The Turangawaewae Basketball Development Program is a place to stand, to grow and to thrive through sport. Rooted in the principles of Hauora and equity, this initiative empowers tamariki and rangatahi to explore basketball in a safe and culturally grounded environment. From grassroots engagement to competitive play, the pathway nurtures holistic development, fosters community connection and builds lifelong skills through structured progression and meaningful mentorship. It is designed to uplift underrepresented voices, strengthen local capacity, and create sustainable opportunities growth – both on and off the court.
Program Structure
| Stage | Program | Focus |
| 1. Engagement & Access | Community Popup Sessions | Free, Fun, local sessions; Hauora-based play; inclusive entry point |
| 2. Foundation Skills | BNZ Kiwi Hoops/Fundamental 2Degrees Girls Got Game Program | Basic movement, teamwork, confidence; Hauora principles. |
| 3. Skill Development | Foundation program | Identity, resilience, deeper skills; wellbeing-centered coaching |
| 4. Game Play | Youth League (3×3) | Fast-paced play, strategy, social, connection, self-esteem |
| 5. Structured Play | School, Club, Representative Teams | Performance, leadership, mentoring, long-term athlete development. |
Hauora Integration
Each stage embeds the four dimensions of Hauora: –
- Taha Tianna – physical wellbeing
- Taha Hinengaro – mental and emotional wellbeing
- Taha Whānau – social connection
- Taha Wairua – cultural identity and belonging.
Community Outcomes
- Activates underserved communities.
- Builds local capacity through coach/referee mentoring.
- Strengthens whānau engagement.
- Promotes equity and long-term participation.
Community Pop Up Sessions
Element Details
Format 1–2-hour Pop-up sessions across local venues (schools, community halls, outdoor courts
Audience Targeted at Year 3 – 8 with pathways into development programs.
Delivery Team Qualified coaches, supported by youth mentors and volunteers.
Session Features Skills challenges, mini-games, music, giveaways, and community kōrero
Engagement Plan Social media blitz & flyers through schools, clubs, and iwi networks
Youth Input Presession surveys and feedback loops to shape delivery.
Foundation Skills – BNZ Kiwi Hoops/2Degrees Girls Got Game Fundamental Program
Element Details
Format 6–8-week program or in-school delivery blocks
Audience Year 3 – 8 Tamariki beginning their basketball journey.
Delivery Team Accredited Kiwi Hoops coaches and trained volunteers.
Session Features Movement games, basic skills, teamwork activities, Hauora reflections
Engagement Plan School partnerships, club referral, whānau info packs
Youth Input End of term feedback & coach check-ins
Skill Development – Foundation Program
Element Details
Format Weekly sessions over 8-10 weeks, with optional holiday intensives
Audience Year 6 – 10 players ready for deeper skill-building
Delivery Team Development coaches, youth mentors, guest facilitators (e.g., nutrition, wellbeing)
Session Features Technical drills, Hauora workshops, team building, identity exploration
Engagement Plan School & club referrals, targeted outreach to girls & Māori
Youth Input Goal-setting sessions and mid-program feedback surveys
Game Play – Youth League, 3×3
Element Details
Format Seasonal leagues (Term 4 & 1), weekend games and local parks
Audience Year 7 – 11 players seeking structured competition.
Delivery Team League Coordinators, referees, and team coaches
Session Features Face paced games, team strategy, leadership roles, inclusive formats
Engagement Plan School and Club registration drives, social media highlights
Youth Input Team captain’s (mana taiohi) hui and post season reviews undertaken.
Structured Pathways – School, Club, Representative
Element Details
Format Year-round trainings, tournaments, and mentoring programs
Audience Year 9 – 13 players pursuing performance and leadership.
Delivery Team Representative coaches, strength & conditioning staff, Hauora facilitators
Session Features Advance training, cultural connection, wellbeing support, travel experiences
Engagement Plan Talent ID camps, coach referrals, whanau engagement evenings
Youth Input Athlete voice panels and leadership development workshops – Mana taiohi
Please contact: 0272937730 or email development@manawatu.basketball