Summitting Mauao: The ultimate Green Prescription

In a bid to enhance their health and smash down previous physical barriers, a group of determined individuals embarked on the Mauao Challenge – a progressive fitness journey with the goal to peak Mount Maunganui.

Organised as part of the Green Prescription Programme run by Sport Bay of Plenty, the challenge seeks to inspire individuals to adopt a more active lifestyle and make strides towards improving their overall wellbeing.

Led by Sport Bay of Plenty Green Prescription Advisor Danilo Martins, the participants undertook a five-week journey to progressively build their fitness levels to reach the summit by the challenge's conclusion. With sessions scheduled twice a week, on Mondays and Fridays, the group engaged in group walks up and around several tracks on the iconic Mount Maunganui. As the weeks progressed, the participants edged closer to their ascent, supported by Danilo and each other.

"Our goal was to support our clients with achievable milestones throughout the challenge, starting with smaller portions up sections of Mauao to avoid overwhelming participants" stated Danilo Martins, emphasising the importance of tailored initiatives in promoting health improvement.

"Many of our clients come from diverse backgrounds and have faced health issues that have hindered their activity levels. This challenge serves as a pivotal step in their journey towards better health,” says Danilo.

The participants, each with their unique stories and motivations, have embraced the challenge wholeheartedly. For some, it marks a significant milestone in their quest for improved fitness, while for others, it represents a chance to overcome longstanding barriers to physical activity.

72-year-old Marie Benvin, who was referred to the Sport Bay of Plenty Green Prescription Programme, said signing up to the challenge was the encouragement she needed to get moving and conquer something she didn’t think possible.

“On the first day we walked around the Mount, I think to myself ‘this is okay, I’ve got this’. Then we started progressively walking up, and I think ‘there is no way I can do this!’ But each week we smashed through an achievable target to prepare us for the next week.”
Marie emphases that doing the challenge in stages was a huge help.

“The view got progressively better too, so that was something to look forward to!”

“I’m completely blown away that I got myself up the Mount. I’m looking forward to doing it again soon. In the meantime, I’m in two walking groups a week and I enjoy walking my dog with friends”.

Marie adds, “It was a great challenge for me to build confidence and know in myself this wasn’t just a fluke. I feel so much better in myself and I really hope my story can encourage others to get involved too. My advice is, don’t wait to get fit – start now, it’s never too late!”

The Mauao Challenge symbolises more than just a physical feat; it embodies the spirit of resilience and determination.

Danilo adds, “The challenge is not just about reaching the summit; it's about reclaiming health and rediscovering their strength and empowering them to continue to incorporate movement in their everyday lives.”

The Mauao Challenge is an example of the transformative potential of small, achievable goals in the journey towards better health. Through dedication, support, and a shared commitment to personal growth, the participants are paving the way for a healthier future.