Kaikohe Coast to Coast inspires

After completing the gruelling 234km Coast to Coast event in the South Island, a group from Te Kura Kaupapa Maori o Kaikohe have returned an inspiration.

Staff members Rodney Behan-Kitto, Tumanako Pawa and two students - and brother and sister- Te Morehu and KonaAriki Hippolite completed the two-day race, kayaking, running and cycling from the South Island’s West Coast to the East Coast.

Kura tumuaki (principal) Marea Timoko says it is is a massive accomplishment.

‘‘They knew what to do and they were mentally and physically prepared. I am very proud for the students, staff and kura.’’

Timoko says the students have become role models. Te Morehu and Kona-Ariki both achieved third place finishes in the school age group rankings.

The group from the kura joined a wider team called Time2Train for the event. The Coast to Coast ran for two days from February 10.

Timoko joined Kona-Ariki and Time2Train’s Frank Haimona during a