Courtside for the Giants - Rangatahi Explorers

Rangatahi Explorers hit the ground running for Term 2 with an epic trip to watch the Nelson Giants take on the Hawkes Bay Hawks, and what a game it was!

With 27 young people making the trip, the energy was high from the moment we left Tapawera. The game came right down to the wire in a nail-biting finish. While the result didn’t quite go the Giants’ way, there was still plenty of cheering, excitement, and fun had by all.

Trips like these are about more than just basketball. Rangatahi Explorers is all about creating opportunities for young people to connect, try new things, build confidence, and make positive memories together. It was awesome to see a great group of rangatahi get involved, support one another, and represent our community so well.

A huge thank you goes to our incredible supporters, Rātā Foundation and Top of the South Community Foundation, whose support helps make youth events like this possible. Their contribution allows us to provide opportunities for local young people to get out, experience new things, and stay connected through positive activities.

We’d also like to give a massive shout-out to Josie, Geinty, and Jake for helping transport everyone safely there and back. Community support like this makes such a difference and is hugely appreciated.

One of the highlights of the trip wasn’t just the game itself, but hearing the positive feedback from the rangatahi involved. One young person shared how welcomed and included they feel at the youth group, even while not attending school locally; a lovely reminder of what these spaces can mean for young people and the importance of connection and belonging.

And the adventures aren’t slowing down anytime soon!

This Friday (22 May 2026), Rangatahi Explorers will be heading to Motueka Youth Group – The Spot, where the cadets are putting on an evening focused on outdoor safety, team-building games, prizes, and a BBQ dinner.

🕞 3.30pm – 7.30pm
📍 Motueka – The Spot
📝 Please sign up by Wednesday — forms are available from the school office.