Our congratulations to Hoani Smith, son of Kate Smith and moko of Eleanor Murphy, (née Russell) of Ōtākou. Hoani graduated with a degree in applied science specialising in sports in Christchurch on 24 March. He also received the Eke Panuku Supreme Māori Student Scholarship Award for CPIT. Kate, Eleanor, Michelle Taiaroa McDonald and whānau were all present at his graduation.
Hoani is the strength and conditioning coach at Lincoln University for hockey, football, golf and basketball sport scholarship student athletes. His major role is to ensure these athletes are performing at their absolute best in their respective sports. He was also the Canterbury Rugby sevens trainer for the 2015 season. We wish Hoani every success in his future.
Hoani Smith with his proud tāua, Eleanor Murphy of Ōtākou. He is wearing te Huri Whenua Korowai, supplied for his graduation by his auntie and kaitiaki of the korowai, Michelle Taiaroa-McDonald.