Tamati Bennett

This year I’m running for something very close to my heart 🏃‍♂️💙

I’m taking on Run for Autism for my son, Alexander. He’s 6, soon to be 7, full of energy, curiosity, and his own way of seeing the world. Autism is a part of who he is, and it’s taught me more about patience, strength, and love than I ever thought possible.

My wife Chelsea and I have created a team called Takiwātanga. In te reo Māori, takiwātanga means “in his/her own time and space” — it’s the word for autism in our language, and it perfectly reflects Alex’s journey and the way he moves through the world.

Every kilometre we run is for him and for every whānau on this journey. It’s not about finishing first, it’s about showing up, pushing ourselves, and raising awareness for a community that deserves more understanding and support.

This run is for Alex 💙 and for all our Takiwātanga warriors.