Nui Street Ball is a success for kids
Six Maraenui primary schools took to the basketball court recently, as part of an ongoing initiative supported by UnisonFibre and local police.
Now in its sixth year, the Nui Street Ball is organised by Maraenui Police and UnisonFibre to bring their community together.
Teams of Year 6 students from Te Awa, Marewa, Te Kura Kaupapa Ma¯ ori O Te Ara Hou, Maraenui, Richmond and Henry Hill schools played four-on-four in the car park at Maraenui shopping centre, with UnisonFibre and Maraenui Police hosting an after-match BBQ.
Police Constable Hoki Ward said the event, which began as a challenge between two schools, has continued to be a great success and now involves six schools.
“We are thrilled at how this event has evolved and grown in just six years. It’s all about supporting the kids of Maraenui and encouraging them to get involved with sport, so the more we can reach the better.”
He said the opportunity to build on the relationship between Police and the Maraenui community was also a key driver behind the event.
UnisonFibre General Manager Mike McGarvey said the company shared the view of Maraenui Police around the importance of strengthening community relationships.
“We look forward to this event each year, and we’re pleased to see how it has grown.
“The kids really seize this opportunity to shine and seeing the smiles on their faces is priceless. It’s great to be part of something that has such a positive impact on the local community,” said Mr McGarvey.
This years’ winning school was Henry Hill School which won the esteemed Nui Ball shield and six basketballs for the school.