Shifting Systems Together: How One Idea Sparked Nationwide Change
What began as a local spark in Te Awa Kairangi is now creating ripples of change across the motu.
The All Star of the Week initiative, born out of Healthy Families Hutt Valley’s vision to reimagine the traditional “Player of the Day” model, is showing what’s possible when we work collectively and share ideas across regions. Designed to shift away from fast-food-sponsored rewards and unhealthy drinks, this kaupapa offers tamariki a new kind of recognition—one that uplifts key values like teamwork, resilience, and kindness, and provides a health-enhancing reward in the form of a pool pass that encourages Whānau to be active together.
But the true impact of this mahi lies in its ability to be shared, adapted, and scaled—which is exactly what happened when the team at Healthy Families Invercargill picked up the kaupapa and gave it life in their community.
Inspired by the Hutt Valley’s approach, the Invercargill team developed their own version—Manawa Tītī, named for the heart of the muttonbird, symbolising strength, determination, and whānau connection. The essence remained the same: recognising tamariki in a meaningful way, and encouraging healthier choices for the whole whānau.
Manawa Tītī certificates
In just two months, 7,000 certificates have been distributed across a wide range of codes—rugby league, touch, water polo, ki-o-rahi, and more—with 75 redemptions at the pool already, and growing interest from additional sports codes like basketball and marching. The shift away from fast food rewards has been well received by whānau and community in both regions, showing that this systems change is not only possible, but welcome.
This is a strong example of what can happen when we prioritise shared learning for collective impact. The kōrero first shared in Te Awakairangi didn’t stay contained—it was carried, shaped, and strengthened through whakawhanaungatanga and open collaboration.
As more communities see the potential in this kaupapa, the ripple continues.
The greatest impact doesn’t always come from holding tightly to an idea, guarding it as our own—but from kōrero tuku iho: the act of passing knowledge forward with intention and trust. When we share ideas openly, we create the conditions for others to adapt, grow, and embed them in ways that resonate with their people, their place, and their purpose.
This is the essence of collective action—not uniformity, but unity of intent. It’s about recognising that we are stronger when we move together, when we uplift each other’s mahi, and when we build on each other’s innovations with courage and care.
Systems shift not by chance, but through shared commitment, open kōrero, and a willingness to let go of ownership in service of a bigger vision: thriving tamariki, connected whānau, and communities leading change for themselves.
Read the original All Star of the Week story here:
Healthy Families Hutt Valley – All Star of the Week
See the Healthy Families Invercargill adaptation in action: