It’s more than just a gym, it’s a vibrant beacon of health in Ōpōtiki, guided by a powerhouse and community-minded woman named Aldean Williams.
Williams is a lightning rod for health and well-being in the eastern Bay of Plenty.
The non-profit community gym she co-founded, Ihi Kura, has grown from 40 to 280 in the last year. And among the gym’s loyal patrons are many of the town’s seniors.
While devoting her time and energy to establishing the gym and promoting health and fitness in Ōpōtiki, Williams has faced personal challenges — including surviving breast cancer and the recent loss of her husband Michael.
Williams has been named the latest ASB Good As Gold recipient for her significant contribution to the community.
Nominator Paula James described Williams’ dedication to the gym, run entirely by volunteers: “She’s determined, [and] she’s a little powerhouse. She’s beautiful inside and beautiful outside.”
‘A survivor’
James said that despite facing her challenges, Williams kept the gym’s doors open for the community.
“She’s a survivor of cancer, breast cancer — that was a long journey. She still took her classes and still did her gym training. Her heart was still there, and then, sadly, she recently lost her beloved husband, Michael.”
“We’re so blessed to have her here in Ōpōtiki. She’s the most beautiful person I have ever met. Everybody loves Aldean,” shared James.
“Aldean only wants to see people’s lives improve. [She has] complete and utter commitment to the community.”
Williams’ daughter Shay Mareroa is proud of her mother.
“The gym is her whole heart, really. She’s all about health and fitness. [She’s] not getting paid and doing it all for free, just for the community, and loving what she’s doing.”
‘Strong’
“To see my Mum still going, pushing through with everything that’s happened. She’s strong, very strong.”
She added: “Dad would be proud of her. He had a lot to do with the gym.”
When told the ASB was giving her $10,000, Williams said she would use some money to fund “a few” gym projects.
“I’m so lost for words. I’m not one to be put in the spotlight, but I love who we are, and [the gym has] always been for [the community].
“This is my happy spot. Helping others be confident and strong is just amazing. When you walk into the gym, you have love, kindness, and acceptance wrapped around you. This is a journey for myself as well, going through grief.”
Williams said she’s focused on the future.
“We’ve got things to do, goals to smash,” she said, adding, “we have to move forward.”
She also had a message for any Ōpōtiki residents curious about hitting the gym.
“Come be part of our vibe; come be part of our tribe.”
If you know a deserving New Zealander you’d like to nominate for ASB Good as Gold, click here.
