Training with Delane Mackie.

With a combined weight loss of 150kg, more than 30 contestants trained for 16 weeks – competing to make a lifestyle change with Te Hekenga Nui – a fitness programme offered by Waipareira.

Similar to America's 'Biggest Loser' – Te Hekenga Nui involves a high intensity training regime, healthy diet and support from a personal trainer.

The programme is part of the Kai Nutrition course delivered by Delane Mackie – Health Promoter and Personal Trainer for Te Whanau o Waipareira Trust in Henderson.

“The aim is to promote healthy lifestyles the best way possible - to lose some pounds while enhancing our wellbeing in a competitive environment,” Mr Mackie said.

Families gathered on Saturday to celebrate the inaugural graduation for Te Hekenga Nui contenders.

Te Hekenga Nui Champion Jonathan Winther and Personal Trainer Delane Mackie

Mr Mackie said the programme is not just about losing weight.

“It is about how exercise makes us feel,” he explains.

Jonathan Winther was announced as Te Hekenga Nui's champion after losing a total of 19.5kg since his first weigh-in 16 weeks ago.

“When I first started it was because I wanted to lose weight. But over time I began to notice a difference in myself – physically and mentally. I have so much energy and I've never felt this good in my life. My attitude has changed and my ultimate goal is to be healthy – for my wife and my sons,” Mr Winther said.

The contestants are between 11 and 60 years of age who trained together 5 days a week.

Mr Winther said they have all become one big whanau.

“The team support is motivating and helps me to go beyond my own limitations. We encourage one another to get up in the morning and try to help each other out by carpooling to training,” he says.

Jonathan Winther and Mai FM's Nickson Clark

The programme involves high intensity workouts including sprinting up and down Bethells' sand dunes, Piha maunga and the steepest hills found in West Auckland.

“High intensity workouts produce more results than your average low intensity exercises such as aerobics and walking. The aim is to push your heart rate up to 75% of its maximum as it increases metabolism and burns more calories,” explains Mr Mackie.

The contestants will continue their goal to becoming models for lifestyle as they plan to compete in the Kerikeri Half Marathon in November.