Kia ora e te whānau,

With winter feeling like it’s fast approaching, it’s a good time to check your kōhanga waka is safe, covered and ready for the months ahead. A few quick reminders now can help prevent bigger hassles later, especially when conditions change quickly.

Trust waka, a privilege and a responsibility
 

Access to a Trust vehicle is a privilege. Our waka represents Te Kōhanga Reo, and we rely on everyone to treat them with care, respect and responsibility. This helps keep our mokopuna and whānau safe, reduces downtime and costs, and makes sure waka are available when they are genuinely needed.

Please help by:

• Driving with care and following road rules at all times

• Keeping the waka tidy, fuelled as required and locked when not in use

• Looking after keys, fuel cards and any equipment left in the vehicle

• Being mindful of where you park and how you load gear

Reporting issues early, even if they seem minor
 

If anything happens, please report it as soon as possible. Even small scrapes, bumps, warning lights, odd noises, tyre issues, or windscreen chips can become bigger problems if they are left. If you are in a third-party accident (where another vehicle is involved), and there is no damage to your waka, a claim form must still be submitted. Early reporting means the right follow up can happen straight away, and we can keep everyone safe and keep the waka on the road.

Roadside assistance, year round cover
 

If your waka breaks down, help is available 24/7. Call 0800 25 22 23 and quote your Drive On ID, you can find your Drive On ID on the sticker located on your windscreen.  

All Trust insured vehicles are covered by AA Roadservice, provided through Gallagher Insurance.

Don’t forget, monthly waka maintenance form
 

All Trust kaimahi with an allocated waka must complete the monthly maintenance form to help keep our vehicles safe and roadworthy:  Waka Maintenance Form.

Submitting an insurance claim
 

Use the link below to download and complete the claim form and submit to [email protected] 

• Download the insurance vehicle claim form (PDF)

Please send your claim form within 24 hours of the incident.

Winter waka care tips
 

A few simple checks can make winter driving safer and help keep our waka in good condition:  

• Check tyre pressure and tread regularly

• Replace wiper blades if they’re smearing

• Top up washer fluid and check oil and coolant levels

• Keep lights clean and functioning

• Clean mats and dashboard vents to reduce moisture build up

• Inspect for dents, scratches, or rust before they worsen

A handy autumn/winter tip is to keep an old towel or cloth in the boot for muddy shoes, wet jackets, and window wipes for cold mornings.

Any pātai, please email: [email protected]