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Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini.

My strength is not mine alone, but comes from the strength of many.

Women’s Support Motueka has been overwhelmed by the generosity of the community following its second annual Gala, held at the Motueka Memorial Hall on Saturday 12 September.

The evening brought together 97 guests and raised an incredible $15,000 to support the organisation’s specialised services for wāhine and whānau in the Motueka and wider Tasman community.

The Gala was a true reflection of collective strength and community. Twenty-two artists generously donated an extraordinary collection of work, including paintings, ceramics and wall hangings, while 78 businesses contributed to the event. Support came from local businesses and individuals, across the wider region and from as far afield as Blenheim, Hanmer Springs and Raglan.

Donations ranged from art, books and handcrafted goods to food, beverages, professional services and experiences. Together they created an impressive selection of auction packages, including getaways and experiences in Abel Tasman National Park, Marahau, Hanmer Springs and Nelson.

Sincere thanks also go to Glasgow Harley, who commissioned photographer Steve Hussey, the 2026 Iris Awards NZ Professional Documentary Photographer of the Year, to create a special image for the Gala. The photograph centred on Mauri, a treasured taonga gifted to Women’s Support Motueka by Taiuru Carving and bathed and blessed in the awa of Te Puna Wai o Riuwaka. Surrounded by many hands, the image beautifully reflected the support, care and connection at the heart of Women’s Support Motueka, and the strength and resilience of the wāhine the organisation walks alongside.

The generosity extended to every part of the evening. Flowers and decorations were donated, along with the expertise and time needed to transform the hall into an enchanting spring garden. Local producers and businesses contributed a wonderful selection of beverages, showcasing some of the fantastic produce of the region.

Women’s Support Motueka Manager Maluz Moreno said the messages accompanying many of the donations were as meaningful as the donations themselves.

“Again and again, people told us how much they value the work we do and how important it is for our community. Those words brought so much warmth and encouragement to our team. They remind us that this mahi matters and, most importantly, that our community cares.”

The organisation extended special thanks to Abby McCall, whose work connecting with artists and support throughout the event was instrumental; auctioneer Mark Rumsey, who generously donated his time and experience and brought wonderful energy to the auctions; and MC Cate Cable, who guided guests through the evening with warmth and humour.

Photographer Sarah Watkins of Real Family Photography generously documented the evening, while Bex Brooks, Kingz Burgess and Jared O’Connell of X Two Z filled the dance floor to finish the night. Carol Shirley and the Beachside Gourmet team provided the delicious three-course dinner enjoyed by guests.

The Gala was also an opportunity for Women’s Support Motueka to share its history, kaupapa and hopes for the future. For nearly four decades, the organisation has walked alongside local wāhine and whānau, providing specialised family violence response, crisis support, advocacy, safety planning, counselling and practical support, alongside prevention and community education.

Sincere appreciation also goes to the Women’s Support Motueka staff, whose commitment to the community extends far beyond organising the Gala, and to the organisation’s trustees for their support and generous contribution throughout. The organisation also acknowledged the many helping hands behind the scenes, including those who supported the Gala through advertising, generously provided space on their fences for event signage, helped with equipment and set-up, and contributed in countless other ways to bring the evening together.

Women’s Support Motueka wishes to thank the guests who filled the hall, including representatives from local businesses, community organisations and social services from Motueka, Tasman and Nelson.

“There was such a feeling of connection in the room. This event reminded us just how much aroha exists within our community. Every artwork, every donated experience, every flower, every helping hand and every person who joined us contributed to something much bigger.

“We do this mahi with aroha and with the belief that a future free from family violence is possible. Our community standing alongside us means that we can continue standing alongside wāhine and whānau when they need us most.”

Next year will mark 40 years of Women’s Support Motueka, an important milestone for a small local service with a huge heart. The organisation looks forward to celebrating four decades of community, courage and connection, while continuing its work towards a future where everyone can live safely and free from violence.

As Women’s Support Motueka looks towards this important milestone, the Gala was a powerful reminder of the whakataukī at its heart: our strength comes from the strength of many.

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