The result of a collaborative effort between Poitūkohu Māori o Aotearoa and Basketball New Zealand, Hoops in Marae is an initiative that partners with iwi and funders across Aotearoa to bring the joy and benefits of basketball to marae communities.

Empowering tamariki and rangatahi

Launched in November 2024, Hoops in Marae aims to get more tamariki and rangatahi active and engaged in basketball by addressing the high demand for hoops around the motu. The initiative's pilot project at Te Poho o Rawiri marae in Tūranginui-a-Kiwa Gisborne, has already shown a positive impact on smaller and more isolated communities.

Strengthening whakapapa and community ties

Hoops in Marae is more than just a sports programme; it aims to strengthen whakapapa ties and provide opportunities for whānau to connect with their culture. By bringing basketball to marae, this initiative nurtures the next generation of players and leaders while promoting physical health, mental well-being, and cultural vitality.

A collaborative effort

This initiative is built on the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and relies on strong partnerships. Basketball New Zealand CEO Dillon Boucher and Poitūkohu Māori o Aotearoa Board Member Michelle Hippolite have both emphasised the importance of collaboration in making basketball accessible and fostering community connections.

Looking ahead

With the success of the initial pilot, Basketball New Zealand is calling for expressions of interest to expand Hoops in Marae to more communities. The goal is to provide sustainable, long-term participation opportunities in a te ao Māori environment, ensuring that basketball continues to grow as a popular sport across Aotearoa.

For more information and to express interest in the Hoops in Marae initiative, visit Basketball New Zealand's website.