New partnership and whare strengthen support for Northland whānau

A new chapter of support for Northland whānau has begun with the official opening of Te Oha a Meri.

Delivered in partnership with Te Whare Ruruhau o Meri Trust (Te Whare) and Anglican Care Northland Charitable Trust (Care Northland) the new whare brings together the shared missions of both organisations creating a space for whānau to access support, build connections, and strengthen wellbeing.

Te Whare Board Chair, Natalie Vincent says the partnership is about two organisations choosing to walk alongside each other for the good of the community.

“We want to acknowledge Whangārei CARE Centre. For more than three decades its kaimahi, volunteers, trustees and supporters cared for whānau in this community. This whare stands on the foundation they built, and we carry that with us.

“Each organisation brings its own strengths. Te Whare brings kaupapa Māori services and a long commitment to whānau wellbeing while Anglican Care Northland carries forward the Anglican tradition of service in Whangārei and shaping new services around local need. Together, we can offer more than either of us could on our own.

Ms Vincent explains the partnership is also an expression of shared values and beliefs.
“It shows what is possible when tikanga Māori and tikanga Pākehā work side by side, each with its own identity and both with a shared purpose.”

Anglican Care Northland Charitable Trust Chair, Sir Chris Farrelly says the opening of Te Oha a Meri is an important milestone for the site, and the people it serves.

“When Whangārei CARE Centre closed, many people were saddened and worried about losing vital local services. Today’s opening is a positive response to that concern. It ensures this site will continue to serve the people of Northland while creating new opportunities for collaboration and growth.”

Sir Chris says the partnership honours the legacy of those who have supported the community for many years while positioning the site to meet future needs.

“This opening represents far more than a physical space. It is a visible expression of partnership, generosity, faith, and a shared commitment to the wellbeing of our communities. Together, we are creating a place where people can find support, connection and hope for the future.”

The whare will serve as a base for a range of existing Te Whare whānau-focused services, while also providing a space where social service providers, churches, community groups and local networks can work closely together.

Te Whare Tāhuhu|CEO, Elizabeth Walker explains, “As communities continue to navigate
cost-of-living pressures and increasing social need, both organisations believe strong partnerships are essential to ensuring support remains accessible, responsive and effective.
“Partnerships like this help make sure support stays accessible, responsive and effective. Whatever challenges our communities face, our focus stays the same: walking alongside whānau, strengthening connections and supporting people to flourish.

“This whare gives us a foundation for that work for generations to come.”

Both organisations acknowledge Te Hāhi Mihinare and Pihopa Te Kitohi Wiremu Pikaahu, and the Anglican Diocese of Auckland and Bishop Ross Bay for their support.

1. Te Whare Ruruhau o Meri Trust Chair, Natalie Vincent and Anglican Care Northland Charitable Trust Chair, Sir Chris Farrelly cut the ribbon to Te Oha a Meri.
2. Tai Tokerau Vicar General, Katene Eruera and The Right Reverend Ross Bay, Bishop of Auckland unveil the plaque for Te Oha a Meri.
3. Sir Chris Farrelly, Natalie Vincent, Tai Tokerau Vicar General, Katene Eruera, Te Whare Tāhuhu/CEO Elizabeth Walker and The Right Reverend Ross Bay, Bishop of Auckland.