Sāmoan learning resources empowering wellbeing for tamaiti and faiaoga in aoga amata.
The devoted faiaoga (teachers) in aoga amata (Sāmoan language nests) have long nurtured the next generation in the warmth of the Sāmoan culture and language. To bolster their essential work and improve the wellbeing of both faiaoga and tamaiti (children), the Ola Malosi initiative was created.This initiative focuses on developing a range of Sāmoan language […]
Inspiring a journey of rediscovery for young parents in West Auckland
Teenage parents are exposed to a myriad of challenges as they navigate their early parenting journey, with feelings of isolation and disconnection contributing to the immense pressures of life with a young child. For a group of young mothers at He Wero o ngā Wāhine in West Auckland, a focus on wellbeing and active recreation […]
Glenavon kai village: where kai and community flourish
Nestled in the heart of Glenavon lies a community hub where connections forged through kai are making a significant difference in people’s lives. Servicing this tightknit West Auckland community, the Glenavon Community Hub has embraced a kai village approach to increase community kai resilience, and to create more pathways for whānau to access affordable, nurturing […]
Prioritising health and wellbeing within Pasifika congregations
For Pasifika whānau, churches are the heart of the community delivering far more than spirituality. Alongside religious worship, they provide valuable social interaction, sport and recreational activities, and valuable health and education services. Recognising the integral role of the church in Pasifika communities, Healthy Families Waitākere has been supporting church leaders to help influence health […]
Pathways to calmness
Anxiety is a normal human emotion. But when anxiety takes over, it can get in the way of everyday life – and for rangatahi already navigating the complexities and challenges of modern life, it can have a significant impact on daily tasks. In mild anxiety cases, an array of techniques are recognised as helping support […]
Pukenga Nui Internship: Building confidence and connection for rangatahi in West Auckland
The initiation of the Pukenga Nui internship in November 2023 was a promising addition to the Active Whakapapa kaupapa. With backing from the Waitākere Ranges Local Board, this paid internship programme embarked on a dual mission; to explore avenues for rangatahi economic empowerment and to support Te Kawerau a Maki to deliver the Active Whakapapa […]
Indigenous practices underpinning approach to māra kai and wellbeing at West Auckland schools
Teaching tamariki about the origins of their food – from garden to table – is well established in schools, but a new approach underpinned by indigenous practices and mātauranga Māori is having a positive impact across learning and wellbeing in several West Auckland schools. Over the last three years, ākonga at Westbridge Residential, Don Buck and […]
Whau and Waitākere Ranges Local Board acknowledge Mana Motuhake o te Kai in 2023 Local Board Plans
A collaborative tool to indigenise local food systems for the health and wellbeing of West Auckland has been acknowledged and referenced in the Whau and Waitākere Ranges Local Board Plans for 2023. Developed by Hoani Waititi Marae, Community Waitākere and Healthy Families Waitākere, Mana Motuhake o te Kai is a tool to authentically engage with […]
Education Review Office embarks on a collaborative journey with Tāfesilafa’i
An initiative rooted in Pacific culture is helping early childhood education centres support both teachers and children to thrive.
Healthy Families Waitākere welcomes new Rautaki Māori: Metiria Light
The Healthy Families team at Sport Waitākere is delighted to announce the appointment of Metiria Light to the role of Rautaki Māori.