Auckland Foundation invests in kaupapa Māori support for whānau
Te Whare Ruruhau o Meri Trust (Te Whare) is delighted to receive funding through the Auckland Foundation Grassroots Giving Programme to extend support for whānau participating in Te Whare services and programmes.
The funding recognises the importance of walking alongside whānau beyond the completion of a programme, ensuring they remain connected to the support, relationships and cultural foundations that help sustain positive change over time.
Guided by its vision of Whaimana Whānau (empowered families), Tamariki Harikoa (joyful children) and thriving communities, Te Whare supports whānau through kaupapa Māori services that nurture healing, strengthen relationships and reconnect people to their identity, culture and aspirations.
The aftercare programme builds on the success of Te Kawa o Te Marae, a culturally grounded wellbeing framework, which supports participants to deepen self-awareness, strengthen whānau relationships and reconnect with whakapapa and tikanga. An independent evaluation highlighted the value of maintaining support and connection after programme completion, with participants expressing a desire for ongoing guidance as they continued their wellbeing journeys.
Through regular hui, tailored support, advocacy and connection to education, training and community opportunities, the aftercare programme will create spaces where whānau can continue to grow in confidence, build on their strengths and remain connected to networks that support their aspirations.
Te Whare Tāhuhu/CEO, Elizabeth Walker says the funding reflects Auckland Foundation’s awareness of the importance of kaupapa Māori solutions that place whānau at the centre.
“At Te Whare, we know transformation happens through relationships, belonging and connection. Our programmes provide important foundations, but it is often the support that follows that helps whānau continue moving forward in ways that are meaningful for them.
“This funding will allow us to strengthen that journey by staying connected with whānau as they put new learnings into practice, reconnect with culture and community, and pursue the goals they have set for themselves and their loved ones.
The initiative aligns closely with Te Whare’s commitment to creating lasting outcomes that contribute to stronger whānau, safer communities and brighter futures for tamariki.
“Our hope is for the programme to support stronger cultural identity, deeper whānau connections, increased confidence and greater participation in whānau, marae and community life.”
Te Whare extends its sincere thanks to Auckland Foundation and The Tindall Foundation for investing in community-led, kaupapa Māori approaches that recognise the strengths, resilience and potential that already exist within whānau and communities.
Ngā mihi nui ki a koe Auckland Foundation | Thank you for your support.
Media Contact
Erin Rangi-Watt
Corporate Services Manager
Te Whare Ruruhau o Meri Trust
erin@tewhare.org.nz(opens in new tab)
022 499 7321