The Taurite Tū Wānanga, held on 5 November 2025 at the Gore Multisports Complex, brought together around 120 kaumātua, 35 kaimahi, and three rangatahi from across the rohe, including Alexandra, Awarua, Hāwea, Hokonui, Invercargill, Ōtākou, Ōtepoti, Puketeraki, Tāhuna, Tokomairaro, and Waitaki. The wānanga opened with a mihi whakatau, whanaungatanga, and kai, followed by sessions where kaumātua learnt six new strength and balance exercises, waiata, and kēmu developed by Taurite Tū physiotherapists. Participants also had time to try new equipment, connect with services, and enjoy whanaungatanga.

Support from the Hokonui Hauora Fund helped provide water bottles, healthy kai including salad, fruit, and sandwiches, and contributed to venue hire costs, with leftover fruit included in goodie bags. Services on site included WellSouth (blood glucose testing, podiatrists, pharmacists, falls prevention, health quizzes, bowel screening), Fire and Emergency NZ, Active Southland, Health and Disability Advocate, and Police. The wānanga strengthened kaumātua hauora by supporting taha tinana, hinengaro, and connection. Feedback from kaumātua reflected the positive impact, with comments including: “I enjoyed it — I really enjoyed it,” “Was great to meet new people and talk to old friends,” “It was good to connect with health services and learn,” and “It’s great to learn new exercises and add them to class.”