The Hokonui Hauora funding played a crucial role in making the Living Well Mataura Family Fun Day 2024 a success, offering the community a chance to come together for a day of fun, relaxation, and friendly competition. With activities available at little to no cost, attendees were able to enjoy a variety of games and win small prizes on the spot. Larger prizes were awarded later in the evening for the competitions. The funding specifically supported the inclusion of bumper balls, an astro ball, and two bouncy castles, provided by Southland Mini Jeeps, which were a big hit with the families. While exact attendance numbers are difficult to determine due to multiple entry points and no ticket sales, it is estimated that around 450 people participated in the event, contributing to the sense of community and enjoyment.

One of the unique aspects of the event was how it brought the community together, providing an opportunity to unwind and forget the stresses of everyday life. Despite facing unexpected weather challenges, including strong winds that threatened the setup, the event was able to adapt. Thanks to the quick assistance of the Mataura RSA, the outdoor activities were relocated to a safer location, which some families even appreciated for the added convenience and safety of not having to cross the street. This adaptability highlighted the event’s flexibility and the collaborative spirit of the community. The positive feedback from attendees, coupled with the team’s ability to overcome logistical challenges, ensured the day was a memorable success. For the organisers, the personal highlight was seeing the joy on everyone’s faces as they enjoyed the day together, and they look forward to making the event even better next year.