Aroaro a Kapa Rongomau

Natalie, John, Carolyn, Zara, Dion, Gina and Mish are Aroaro a Kapa Rongomau!

Together we are taking part in the Hawkes Bay Hundy, an Emergency Services Relay Run for Mental Health on September 28th. We will be running 100km to raise funds and awareness, to help those suffering from mental health.

As emergency service personnel we see the effects of mental health in our society on a daily basis. Often this constant exposure to emotional and tragic events causes our own to suffer from mental health issues as well.

We are a mix of sworn officers, Police employees, friends and family who are absolutely fizzing about competing in the Hawkes Bay Hundy and supporting the kaupapa. We are a Wellington based team set to travel to the Bay for the weekend’s events.

The Hawkes Bay Hundy has chosen to donate all funds raised to STAROS - a Hawkes Bay trust that provides information and supports those bereaved by suicide within New Zealand.

About our team name - Aroaro a Kapa Rongomau : NZ Police first responders.

Aroaro a kapa means the frontline of defence , in Police terms its means first responders.

Rongomau means they who keep the peace, which is Police – we all made a promise to keep the peace –and comes from the oath of office, of the office of constable.

Our Iwi name is Ngati Rongomau, Rongo the god of peace, mau to carry, preserve, protect.