Strum and Sing: A Simple Idea Strikes a Chord in Waiwhetu

Ukelele classes bring joy, connection, and new faces through church doors

What began with a single donated ukelele and a spark of curiosity has grown into a thriving community at St Paul’s Anglican Church in Waiwhetu.

The Strum and Sing Waiwhetu ukelele class, has welcomed more than 100 participants through the church doors, offering music, friendship, and a gentle invitation into church life.

Each Wednesday, the church hall fills with the sound of strumming strings, laughter, and shared kai. The group has become a place where people of all ages, from three to eighty years old, can learn, connect, and belong.

“It’s gone far beyond what I first imagined,” said Wayne Paaka, who coordinates and teaches the class. “It’s not something I could have planned, God’s been on it from the start.”

Wayne’s journey into ukelele teaching began unexpectedly. He is a former classical guitarist but a serious accident meant he didn’t play music for years. However, after Karl Weeks-Dickson, Priest in Charge at St Paul’s, shared the idea of starting a Ukelele group his mother gave him a ukelele. Wayne then started watching YouTube tutorials and discovered how accessible and joyful the instrument could be.

“I’d never played a ukelele before,” Wayne said. “But it’s easier to learn than a guitar, more portable, and people can pick it up quickly. That’s part of the magic.”

After visiting local ukelele groups, Wayne met a woman who was looking for a new church and wanted to start a beginner-friendly group. With support from Karl and Wayne, she launched the group in a nearby community room. Soon the group grew so much it moved into the St Paul’s hall.

Unlike many music groups that cater to intermediate or advanced players, Strum and Sing Waiwhetu is intentionally beginner-friendly. The three-hour sessions include structured teaching, group practice, and opportunities to explore vocals, keyboards, and percussion. There’s always a break for shared kai at 6:30pm, which has become a cherished part of the rhythm.

“Our point of difference is that we start from the very beginning,” Wayne explained. “We use simple songs, YouTube videos, and just encourage people to give it a go. It’s amazing how quickly people pick it up.”

The group has received 28 donated ukeleles, ensuring that anyone who walks through the door can borrow an instrument and join in. “There’s always one for people to use,” Wayne said. “We’ve had people text and say, ‘I heard about this, can I come along?’ It’s that kind of word-of-mouth that’s helped it grow.”

The impact of the group has extended well beyond the church walls. Strum and Sing Waiwhetu has performed at the St Paul’s Matariki service and has invitations to perform at local retirement homes and other spaces.

Not long ago the group picnicked on Petone beach and had a sing-a-long. While they were playing many passersby stopped and enjoyed their music.

“We played songs, shared food, and people just gathered,” Wayne said. “It was beautiful. Music has a way of drawing people together.”

One of the most exciting developments has been the launch of Uke Church, a monthly service held from 4–5pm at St Paul’s Waiwhetu with shared kai from 5-6pm. Blending music, reflection, and community, the service offers a relaxed and welcoming space for people to explore faith.

“People from the community have come along just because they heard about it,” Wayne said. “It’s a gentle way to reconnect with church, no pressure, just music and presence.”

Karl’s support has been instrumental. “Having a Priest in Charge who’s also a musician makes a huge difference,” Wayne said. “Karl understands what we’re doing and has backed it all the way.”

The group’s inclusive ethos has made it a place where people feel safe to try something new. The youngest participant is just three years old, and the oldest is 80. Some come for the music, others for the community, and many for both.

“It’s been a joy to see young and old participate,” Wayne said. “We’ve had people who’ve never played an instrument before, and now they’re performing in public. It’s not just about music, it’s about connection, confidence, and belonging.”

Wayne, who also serves on vestry, sees the movement as part of a wider call to open church doors in new ways. “This seems to be bringing people back through the doors of the church,” he said. “It’s a simple idea, but it’s made a big impact.”

Looking back, Wayne reflects on how the journey began with a small nudge, a gift from his mum, a YouTube video, and a conversation with someone looking for a new church.

“I didn’t know where it would lead,” he said. “But I’ve just kept saying yes to the nudges. God’s been prompting me along the way.”

Strum and Sing Waiwhetu is a testament to what can happen when a simple idea is acted on with faith, creativity, and community spirit.