Representing the Manawatū on International Land and Water
Two talented rangatahi shared their adventures representing the Manawatū District across the globe at Council on Wednesday. Supported by MDC’s Representative Fund, Elleanor King presented on her experience competing at a Junior International Canoe Polo Tournament, and Bailey Jeffery shared his experience at the International Taekwon-Do World Championships.
Spreading her wings and spending three weeks away from home, Elleanor King travelled to Dublin, Ireland in early 2025 to compete in a Junior International Canoe Polo Tournament. As part of an U21 women’s team, she played in two divisions against teams from across the globe including Switzerland, Denmark, Ireland, and France. The tournament saw Elleanor embrace challenges such as playing in salt water and taking on mixed-gender teams, giving her the chance to develop her skills, both on and off the water. Her team achieved an impressive 6th place in the U18 grade and 2nd place in the U21 grade, finishing runner up to France. Looking back, Elleanor’s trip highlights included celebrating her 18th birthday in Denmark, playing at the ‘Let’s Go Hydro’ venue with its amazing aqua park, visiting Dublin’s cathedral, peace wall, and exploring Copenhagen.
As part of Team Manawatū, Bailey Jeffery travelled to Croatia in 2025 to compete at an international Taekwon-Do tournament. Honoured to be the flag bearer at the opening ceremony, Bailey and his team faced off against 15 teams, with competitors ranging in age from 12 to 40. The event wasn’t without its challenges, as a prior concussion meant Bailey couldn’t compete in all the categories he had planned. He didn’t let that hold him back, as his team delivered a strong result, placing 8th overall. Bailey also took home bronze after a semi-final against Norway. Bailey isn’t slowing down, as later this year he’ll head to the Taekwon-Do World Cup in Spain. Locally, he’s coaching younger players and promoting his Palmerston North club to help grow membership numbers.
Council shared their pride in both Elleanor and Bailey’s presentations, their successes and the bright futures ahead of them. Council is proud to have supported these rangatahi through the Representative Fund, seeing them achieve their goals on the world stage.
The Representative Fund is part of Manawatū District Council’s community toolkit, supporting individuals or teams who represent the Manawatū District nationally or internationally. Minimising financial barriers, the fund supports residents who take part in cultural, recreational, and learning opportunities. To learn more about the Representative Fund, please visit MDC’s website: Representative Fund - Closed for 2025/26 Applications | Manawatū District Council