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From Te Koutu to the world: honouring Waikimihia Douglas-Karauna
From Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Te Koutu to the FIBA U17 World Cup and college basketball in the United States, Waikimihia Douglas-Karauna's journey is one to celebrate.
Rotorua's Waikimihia Douglas-Karauna has much to be proud of. From representing Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Te Koutu to wearing the New Zealand singlet internationally, her journey is one our community can celebrate, for her basketball and for the culture she carries with her.
On the world stage
In July 2024, Waikimihia represented Aotearoa at the FIBA U17 Women's Basketball World Cup in Mexico. She was first named as a non-travelling reserve, then joined the team after another player was injured, and earned her chance to compete against the world's best.
Haka stage and basketball court
That same year, she also represented her kura at the national kapa haka competition. Speaking to Te Ao Māori News, Waikimihia talked about the challenge of balancing both, and wanting younger students to see they can chase both dreams. She spoke proudly of representing her whānau, iwi and kura, with te ao Māori as a lasting source of strength.
Read her interview with Te Ao Māori News (opens in a new tab)
Success at home
Te Koutu won the 2024 National Secondary Schools Single A girls' basketball title, with Waikimihia named the tournament's Most Valuable Player. She was also recognised as a Rotorua Young Achiever that year.
Tania Dalton Foundation profile (opens in a new tab)
The next step
Her basketball has since taken her to the University of Texas Permian Basin in the United States. In her first university season in 2025–26, she started 25 of the 28 games she played. Her university profile lists Rotorua as her hometown and Te Kura o Te Koutu as her school.
UTPB Athletics profile (opens in a new tab)
Something for our rangatahi to aim for
Waikimihia's journey shows our rangatahi there's room to chase excellence in sport while staying connected to the people, language and culture that shape you.
Congratulations, Waikimihia. We celebrate your achievements, your commitment to your kura and culture, and the journey you continue to build.
