With Cyclone Gabrielle pushing the start of Fia Ola back a week, the programme resumed on the 20th of February, 2023. Thankfully, the elderly members returned safe and well with their same cheeky personalities.
It had been a few months since the groups reunited with the team, so everyone was very excited to visit, have a laugh and enjoy their presence once again.
Former Fia Ola Coordinator, Taua Malaetele entered his well-deserved retirement and joined the Samoan Fia Ola group. Now, Willie Maea has taken on the role, shifting from his previous role as Partnership Lead to the newest Fia Ola Coordinator. Here, he joined Ainise and the pair are currently leading the Fia Ola programmes.
Although it has only been a week since the program resumed, a lot has been on. Recently, the team took the Cook Island Fia Ola group out on a day trip around Auckland.
The first stop was the Devonport Ferry Terminal. Everyone ventured outside for some photos and snacks. Next up was lunch at Mission Bay. Although the rain did put a stop to a picnic on the beach, it didn’t stop the Fia Ola mamas and papas from having the happiest time continuing their music, delicious lunch and fun together.
This year is looking great for the elderly mamas and papas. They will be joining a YMCA Goldfit fitness programme in the next couple of weeks and will be visited by the Heart Foundation to complete health checks.
It’s a rewarding experience giving the elderly a place to enjoy themselves, embrace their cultures and combat that sense of isolation and loneliness they may feel at home.
Fia Ola. Living longer happily.
