Paddle for mental health

Mental Health Matters

Kia Ora Whānua, it’s that time of year again where I would like to help shift our focus from the general day to day motions and get you thinking

about the bigger picture. This year I have decided to fundraise for an organization who is very active in this area and has a true impact on our youth. Although I’m a big kid myself I believe that our youth is the future, but also the most at risk in these trying times. Whenua Iti provides experiential learning programs for young individuals which focuses on personal & social development bringing positive change in their lives and communities.

Mental health plays a massive role in our lives as individuals, how we respond to events and how we take our experiences and use it to empower, change or build ourselves. During the past year, there have been times where I have struggled to cope with big events completely out of my control but have been able to see my way through. I am fortunate to see that our natural environments have healing powers, not everyone is that fortunate. Choosing Whenua Iti became a no brainer knowing that one of the skills they facilitate is connecting our experiences from the outdoors back to our lives and vice versa.

This year I will be paddling the Abel Tasman coastline, a place that has come to feel like home for me and many others. A place where the natural environment has become part of my every move, a place that heals people from all areas of the world, a place that is sacred to those that invest their energies here. Last year I have the opportunity to do this paddle with my dear friend Amber Champion, who has been my continued inspiration, someone who has pushed me and inspired me to be the best version of myself & ultimately the one that asked if I would be willing to be part of this chain reaction. The chain begins with a nomination, and is followed by an acceptance or a decline. The idea is to inspire individuals with accessibility, passion and drive to give back, draw attention or inspire others to see the big picture. To lift heads from our everyday life to think about those less fortunate, to bring attention to those in need, and to genuinely think outside our boxes.

The Abel Tasman coastline is where my passion for sea kayaking began, at the same time as my guiding career. The longer I live here, paddle here and set roots here the more I learn, am stretched and continue to push my own abilities. It is also a place of learning for those involved in Whenua Iti, a place of growth, opportunity, and new beginnings. I couldn’t see any other place fit enough for a challenge like this.

My fundraising goal is $10 for every kilometre I paddle, with a final goal of $1000. This money will be donated to Whenua Iti, the funds will be dispersed through their program accordingly. I am hoping to launch for my paddle in the morning on April 12th 2021. This challenge will take me upwards of 14 hours, and approximately 100km. I invite anyone who wants to join me for the last few kilometres to reach out, as these are some of the most challenging; mentally and physically.

You can support me in many ways. Firstly, wearing a green shirt representing mental health. Secondly, to checking in with those around you and lastly by spreading the word.