The 2023 Air New Zealand Te Kara Run in support of Autism Cook Islands drew a massive crowd of around 1000 families and children in the biggest, the most fun and colourful fundraising event of the year.

Te Kara Run (Colour Run) started at the Constitution Park with a warm up session by the CC Tamure dancing tutors and a lively introduction to kick off the event by Autism’s vice president Tony Fe’ao who urged participants not to race, “it’s not a race, there’s no prize for coming first… it’s about the colour on your face”.

Air New Zealand has come on board this year as the main sponsor for the event. The airline’s country manager, Addrienne Hosking-Tinirau stated in a social media post that they’re very fortunate to be the naming sponsor this year.

Hosking-Tinirau expressed her special connection to Autism Cook Islands along with many families within the Cook Islands.

“It’s been lovely to see Autism Cook Islands grow over the last 17 years, so supporting this worthy cause to bring more awareness into the community and to provide that support in building on Autism and what their association has to offer for the community at large,” she stated.

Autism’s programme manager Kat Jensen was responsible for organising the amazing event along their trusty committee and crew.

“We can’t thank our community enough for always getting behind our initiatives and coming out in full force to support.”

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a life-long development disorder affecting social skills, language and communication skills and flexibility with thinking.

Autism Cook Islands promotes building awareness, implementing programmes, and building relationships with families and communities.

Donations will support the group’s current initiatives and community programmes which include: Social Confidence Through Play - Badminton, Lego Masters, ‘Learn to Swim’ swimming lessons; Autism Hub – a space they call home and is the base for all their work; Transition Programme – from school to employment for students with autism, and more