Helping our community rewrite its story

A message from Liz Kelly, Te Tumu Whakarae | CEO

Kia ora koutou, welcome to our second monthly pānui.

Thank you to everyone who sent in kind words about our first edition! It’s heartening to see how many of you are keen to stay connected with our mahi at the Whānau Centre.

This month’s stories are all about people and the journeys they’re on. Their stories are also a good reminder of the challenges they’ve faced and the strength they’re discovering along the way.

One story that really stands out is about our new men’s programme, Te Huringa ō Te Ao – Supporting Men’s Behaviour Change, led by the incredible Troy Wairau-Laga.

Troy has created a space where tāne can be themselves where they can show up with everything they’re carrying and find connection.

Sometimes that looks like boxing. Sometimes it’s just a chat.

Either way, it’s about showing that change is possible, and that our tāne deserve spaces where they can be vulnerable and grow.

As Troy says: “There is a light at the end of the tunnel – sometimes you just need a space, and someone, to help you see it.”

You’ll also read about our rangatahi in our Mana Mōtuhake programme who stepped up and spoke proudly at our Matariki celebration.

For many of them, public speaking was completely new, and pretty uncomfortable. But they did it.

They stood in front of an audience and introduced themselves with mana. That confidence is hard-earned, and it’s going to carry them forward, whether they’re applying for jobs, joining new spaces, or simply finding their voice.

Esther, one of our counsellors, also shares what it means to sit with someone as they start making sense of their story.

Our counselling service is often a turning point where people realise the abuse they experienced wasn’t their fault or begin to understand the patterns they grew up with.

Esther calls it “relentless kindness”. That’s exactly what she brings, alongside her knowledge of emotional regulation and trauma-informed care.

For many of our clients, it’s the first time they’ve felt truly heard.

Of course, not every challenge is emotional. Many of our whānau are still facing tough times with housing, employment, and putting food on the table.

Thanks to Kiwi Community Assistant, who continues to provide essential support.

Unfortunately, while we’d love to ensure everyone has enough to eat, there is only so much to go around.

So, we’re prioritising those who are already engaged with our other services, like budgeting. It’s part of our commitment to wraparound care, recognising that people don’t experience life in silos, and neither should our support.

Whether it’s through boxing, a counselling session, or a shared hāngī after a karakia, all of our work is about helping people feel seen, supported, and capable of building a better future for themselves and their whānau.

Thank you for being part of this journey with us.