Ripeka, 71, is a real-life fitness influencer

Undeterred by a painful back injury and the wait for a second hip replacement, she’s the face of fitness at her Kāinga Ora apartment complex in central Auckland. In the year since she moved in, Ripeka has established a fitness routine averaging three hours a day – and her neighbours are following her lead.

As well as leading weekly Boxfit sessions, Ripeka invites other tenants to join her for fitness classes and weight training at the gym next door, and to accompany her to the city pool where she swims four days a week.

“I take the young ones under my wing,” says Ripeka. “I see potential in them, and I want to encourage them to enjoy a healthy life. There’s no pressure though, I just let them know that they’re welcome to join me when they feel ready.

“I’ve always been into fitness, it’s so good for your wellbeing. And a bit of support and encouragement can help people to make big changes. One of the young people was having issues with alcohol when he arrived, and he’s quit drinking now.”

Te Mātāwai is the first and largest single site supported housing complex built by Kāinga Ora. Tenants have access to 24/7 onsite support and are empowered to build connections and to participate in their community.

Ripeka moved into Te Mātāwai, after a stay in emergency housing nearby. She’d become homeless during the pandemic when her husband William had become unwell with dementia, and she was on crutches after injuring her hip.

“I was so grateful to be able to move in here. When I was offered a place, I said, ‘Wherever you put me, I’ll be happy’ - and I am. The apartments are beautiful, and I love being so close to the gym and the pool and the bus stops. I can take a bus to visit my husband at his rest home.”

One of Ripeka’s favourite times is the weekly hikoi/walk to a mystery location. Tenants join the hikoi leader to explore destinations such as maunga/mountains and museums.

“We go to beautiful places and learn about the history.”

Ripeka also likes to join working crews to host special events such as Matariki, cooking for 200 people over two days.

“There was a lot of planning and preparation involved, and it felt great to be part of a team giving back.”

Community Development Manager Dayne Smith says Whaea Ripeka is a “massive” asset to the Te Mātāwai community.

“She’s a leader and a role model. She encourages and inspires others to make healthier choices through physical fitness, a healthy diet and making social connections. She joins most of the activities on offer, leads a Breakfast Club and Boxfit sessions, and she's helped us plan and deliver Matariki and Christmas events. We're so lucky to have her in our community."