Over the past year, our organisational cultural practice framework Whaitake Whakaoranga Whānau has played a significant role in strengthening cultural practice across Kia Puāwai.
Since December 2025, around 115 kaimahi have participated in seven noho wānanga, deepening their understanding of the framework and continuing their learning through He Whakatupuranga Communities of Learning.
As an organisation committed to honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi, we recognise the value of learning in places where connections to whenua, whakapapa and local knowledge are strong. Through time spent on marae and alongside mana whenua, kaimahi have had opportunities to strengthen their understanding of te ao Māori and consider how this informs their practice.
Throughout the year, mana whenua across Waikato-Tainui, Te Moana-a-Toi, Tāmaki Makaurau and Te Tai Tokerau welcomed our people onto their marae and generously shared their knowledge, stories and experiences with us. These connections have helped shape the ongoing development of Whaitake Whakaoranga Whānau and strengthened our relationship with the communities we serve.
Whaitake Whakaoranga Whānau is ultimately about ensuring tamariki, rangatahi and whānau receive support that reflects who they are and what matters to them. By continuing to build cultural confidence and capability across our workforce, we strengthen our ability to deliver practice that reflects our commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
Ngā mihi to everyone who has been part of this kaupapa over the past year. The willingness of our kaimahi to learn, listen and reflect continues to bring Whaitake Whakaoranga Whānau to life across Kia Puāwai.