VOYCE – Whakarongo Mai was given an amazing opportunity offered by Blues Rugby as a result of the connection we have formed with the Northland Rugby Union. This connection meant that VOYCE was gifted 50 free tickets by Blues Rugby, to tamariki atawhai and their care whānau to attend the Super Rugby Pacific Club game that was happening on their back doorstep. It was a special occasion as Whangārei is not the home ground for either team.

It was so joyous to meet and greet the excited tamariki, hand over their tickets and watch them bounce through the gates into a sold-out stadium full of colour and excitement. We had a block of seats where we were able to see our tamariki and whānau sitting together, laughing, smiling, eating and just having a great day out at the rugby.

Often for care whānau, attendance to these types of events can be hard as the overall cost is just a little too much for them. A solid relationship with good stakeholders and the simple removal of the cost of a ticket can instantly make events such as these a reality for young people in care.