Paddling 1000 miles to raise $10,000 for Pasifika youth in Tasman through the Fa’avae Foundation.
Motueka, Tasman
In July 2026, I’ll be taking on one of the toughest endurance events in the world, the Yukon1000. That’s 1,000 miles of continuous paddling through remote wilderness in Canada and Alaska, testing resilience, teamwork, and determination.
But this challenge is about more than just finishing.
I’m aiming to raise $10,000 - $10 for every mile paddled - to support the Fa’avae Pasifika Fund. This fund will provide ongoing support for Pasifika youth, with all contributions placed into the Fa’avae Pasifika Fund held by the Top of the South Community Foundation. Funds will be professionally invested, with the income generated used to support Pasifika communities long‑term, creating impact well beyond this campaign. This kaupapa is close to my heart, focused on helping Pasifika youth in the Tasman region access better opportunities in education, health, and life.
Through my journey in sport and the outdoors, I’ve seen firsthand how the right support, guidance, and opportunities can change the direction of a young person’s life. The Fa’avae Pasifika Fund exists to provide exactly that, creating pathways, building confidence, and supporting future leaders in our communities.
If you’re able to support, even $10, one mile, makes a real difference.
Let’s turn every paddle stroke into opportunity.
My parents founded the Fa’avae Foundation and am deeply committed to supporting Pasifika youth through education, health, and opportunity in our community.
Funds will support Pasifika youth in Tasman with education, health initiatives, mentoring, and opportunities to grow confidence, skills, and future pathways.
Thank You for Your Incredible Support 28 July 2026
Thank you!
A huge thank you to everyone who donated to our Yukon 1000 Pasifika Fundraiser. Your generosity has been incredible, and together we've reached our fundraising goal. It means so much to Sophie and me, and even more importantly, it will help create opportunities for Pasifika youth through the Top of the South Community Foundation.
Thank you also to everyone who followed our journey, sent messages of encouragement, and cheered us on from back home. During a race like the Yukon 1000, you don't get to see those messages until the finish, but knowing so many people were behind us made the achievement even more special.
We're grateful to have been able to win the race and set a new course record, but what will stay with us most is the support and generosity shown by our community. It's a reminder that adventures like this can have a purpose beyond the finish line.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for believing in us and for helping make a positive difference.
Ngā mihi nui,
Nathan
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