Laking Family Tour Aotearoa

$3,160 of $9,000 goal

Given by 38 generous donors in around 3 months

We are committed to empowering wāhine and their tāmariki who have been affected by interpersonal violence through Te Whare Aio Māori Refuge.

Auckland

Kia ora koutou

Along with my husband George and youngest son Julian I'll be cycling the length of New Zealand as part of the Tour Aotearoa. On Sunday 23rd February 2020 we start at Cape Reinga at the Northern tip of New Zealand. Over the next 30 days we will cycle 3000km all the way to Bluff, the most Southern settlement on the South Island. The Tour Aotearoa will be a physical and mental challenge and spiritual journey for me.

I feel incredibly grateful that throughout my life of over half a century I myself have been surrounded by whānau and wonderful friends of all genders who love and respect me. I do not take this for granted since as a sexual assault specialist I see the effects of interpersonal violence every day. Too many wāhine Māori are affected.

The three of us are aiming to raise $1 per cycled kilometre. Our funds will go to Te Whare Aio Māori Womens' Refuge in South Auckland. It is a small, independent refuge. Their Safe House offers accommodation for 4 single wāhine and one whānau who are at high risk. Being away from their abusers they get space and support to reclaim a violence-free life. Te Whare Aio will use these valuable funds for high-priority projects including setting up a parenting course based on Kaupapa Māori principles and a course teaching basic IT literacy.

We are grateful for your support – tēnā koutou, mō to koutou mahi tautoko.

Anne Laking's involvement (page creator)

As a sexual assault specialist I see the effects of interpersonal violence every day. Te Whare Aio Māori Women's Refuge offers amazing support to these wāhine and their tāmariki empowering them to reclaim a violence-free life.

Latest update

Our countdown has started - one more week to go! 16 March 2020

Dear whānau and friends

We have been humbled by your interest, support and generosity for our adventure but also Te Whare Aio. THANK YOU! It means a lot to us and spurs us on when it gets tough.

One more week to finish our journey. Yesterday we planned our final days in more detail. Our days have been long. We had some mechanical challenges but fortunately our bodies have adapted to the demands. - physically and mentally. I know I’ve never been as fit before. We got used to the uphills, gravel and headwind but the most beautiful scenery still fascinate us. We just finished the steep and technical Big River Adventure and the Westcoast Wilderness Trail. Just stunning. We are now in Hokitika and look forward to the glaciers.

One more week to go. I know I‘ll be glad but also a bit sad to finish our intense experience. I will try and continue to make most of it.

With lots of love

Anne, George and Julian

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