Age Concern Nelson Tasman

Age Concern Nelson Tasman and SpinPoi are teaming up to present a series of hands-on workshops around playing poi to keep the mind and body fit. Whether you are a health care professional or would just like to try giving the poi a twirl, these workshops are for you! See below for information on the different sessions. You MUST register to attend by emailing: [email protected].

General Workshop: Poi for your Health

Thursday 15th August, 10-11am
Greenmeadows Community Centre
FREE event but please register.

You may have seen dazzling displays of poi in kappa haka, or done poi yourself in primary school, but did you know that this precious taonga can improve your physical and mental wellbeing? Discover the science behind how poi is good for your health plus attempt poi moves that will challenge body and mind. All ages and abilities welcome!

Introductory Training Course: Poi & Rest Home/Hospital

Thursday 15th August, 1- 4pm
Greenmeadows Community Centre.
$30.00

This course is aimed at those who would like to facilitate poi sessions for rest home/hospital level adults who will primarily stay seated during exercise. You will learn a variety of simple poi movements that can be done sitting or standing, and how to put those movements together to create infinite exercises for keeping the mind and body engaged.

Introductory Training Course: Poi & Independent Living

Friday 16th August, 10-3pm
Greenmeadows Community Centre. 
 $50.00, lunch provided

This course is aimed at those who would like to facilitate poi sessions for community dwelling/independently living older adults. You will learn beginner to intermediate poi movements which target strength, balance, flexibility, and coordination, and how to use those movements to facilitate fun and challenging sessions.

For inquiries or to register, please get in touch

Registration and other inquiries: Marrit Walstra-Russell (Age Concern) [email protected] or phone 03 544 7624

Inquires regarding the workshop content: Kate Riegle van West (SpinPoi) [email protected]

View the Facebook event

About the Instructor

Dr. Kate Riegle van West is an artist, scientist, and researcher with a passion for play and wellbeing. She completed her PhD in the health benefits of poi at the University of Auckland, where she conducted the first study to scientifically investigate the effects of poi on physical and cognitive function. She was awarded the Future Leader Award from the Royal Society of New Zealand for her work in the poi/health field, and is currently the leading expert on utilizing poi in aged care to keep the mind and body fit.

Supported by the Nelson City Council and Nelson Bays Primary Health Organisation