Foodstuffs South Island Community Trust backs grassroots initiative supporting young athletes in Christchurch’s east

Tamai Sports team enjoys a shared meal  after each training session at Tāne Norton Park, Christchurch. 

The Foodstuffs South Island Community Trust has donated $10,000 in vouchers to the Tamai Sports Programme, supporting the organisation’s mission to create life-changing opportunities for tamariki in Christchurch’s eastern suburbs through sport.  

Tamai Sports works with over 2,000 children, aged 7-13, each year from the Woolston, Bromley, Linwood and Phillipstown communities, supporting their physical wellbeing, cultural identity and social development through participation in sport. 

Programme Director Matt de Vries says the funding will help provide healthy kai to children taking part in their winter training programme. 

“Sport is the vehicle, but our mission is about empowering our tamariki, building strong communities, and creating opportunities where there might otherwise be barriers,” says de Vries. 

“The Foodstuffs South Island Community Trust grant will directly support our ability to feed tamariki before and after training. Shared kai after training isn’t just about eating well, but also connection, inclusion and whanaungatanga.” 

Tamai Sports attempts to remove barriers that may prevent kids from participating in sport. Tamariki are picked up from school by bus, provided with sports uniforms and gear, and mentored by coaches and volunteers, many of whom are experienced athletes. 

Established in 2018 by former Christ’s College Head Boy Max Goodwin and former Assistant Director of Sport Stephen Dods (a former Canterbury rugby player), Tamai Sports became a registered charity in 2020. Since then, it has grown significantly, with tamariki involved in netball, rugby, and football over winter, and Futsal, touch rugby, and cricket in summer. 

Tamai Sports rugby teams put their skills to the test at Tāne Horton Park.  

Lucy Boock, Chair of the Foodstuffs South Island Community Trust, says supporting Tamai Sports is a natural fit with the Trust's focus on helping local communities across the South Island.  

“We’re backing a grassroots initiative that’s giving local tamariki the tools, confidence and support they need to succeed, not just in sport, but in life,” says Boock. 

“Tamai Sports is a shining example of community-led impact. It’s inspiring to see what’s possible when people come together with aroha, purpose and belief in their kids.” 

The Foodstuffs South Island Community Trust is funded by owner-operators from New World, PAK’nSAVE and Four Square stores across the South Island.