Ngāpuhi is progressing work toward an iwi led approach to supporting tamariki and whānau through the Enabling Communities kaupapa, with Oranga Tamariki supporting this work.  This progress reflects a shift toward greater backing for Ngāpuhi to design and deliver its own approaches, building momentum toward iwi led care for tamariki and whānau. At the centre of this kaupapa is an iwi led prototype focused on mokopuna safety, designed to test how Ngāpuhi can better support its own tamariki and whānau, and to lay the foundations for the future devolution of specific Oranga Tamariki functions to Ngāpuhi. The prototype will put this into action by strengthening whakapapa based care that keeps tamariki connected to their people, their whenua and their identity, supporting more tamariki to remain within their whānau where it is safe to do so, and building stronger support around Ngāpuhi caregivers. It will also focus on getting alongside whānau earlier, providing practical support before challenges reach crisis point and reducing the likelihood of tamariki entering care or youth justice pathways. Alongside this, Ngāpuhi will look to better coordinate support through a Ngāpuhi led approach, including the development of a Ngāpuhi hub to bring services together and youth focused initiatives aimed at reducing pathways into serious offending. The prototype will also explore ways to maintain connection and continuity of support for whānau living outside the rohe. For many whānau across Te Tai Tokerau, the impacts of care and protection and youth justice systems are not new. They have been felt across generations. Today, more than 700 Ngāpuhi tamariki are in the care and protection system, with many more involved in youth justice. These numbers reflect a reality many whānau already know too well. This kaupapa reflects a long standing drive by Ngāpuhi to create solutions that come from within, grounded in whakapapa, tikanga and the lived experiences of its people. While the need in Te Tai Tokerau has long been clear, this has not always been matched by the level of support required to enable iwi led approaches at scale. This work creates space for Ngāpuhi to design, test and grow its own approaches over time, with Oranga Tamariki supporting this process, while building toward greater iwi leadership and responsibility. The next phase will focus on putting these approaches into practice and ensuring they deliver meaningful outcomes for Ngāpuhi whānau.

Memorial Park in Kaikohe was alive with energy on 4 September as taitamariki and kaimahi from across the mid-north came together for the Hone Heke Memorial Park in Kaikohe was alive with energy on 4 September as taitamariki and kaimahi from across the mid-north came together for the Hone Heke Cup sports day. Organised by Te Kotahitanga e Mahi Kaha Trust (TKEMKT), Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services (NISS), Ara Whakamaua (AW), and Regent Training Centre (RTC), the day brought taitamariki who often miss out on these experiences into the heart of healthy competition, whanaungatanga, and fun. From the first whistle, the park rang with cheering as taitamariki took to basketball, touch, and tug of war. Each game was hotly contested, with plenty of laughter, determination, and encouragement from the sidelines. The energy spilled over to the kaimahi, who joined in their own round of volleyball as part of the staff competition. Two trophies were introduced on the day: the Hone Heke Cup for the winning taitamariki organisation, and Te Kawa a Rāhiri for the staff champions. These trophies symbolise not just victory on the field, but the growing spirit of unity between local youth-focused services. As the games wrapped up, everyone gathered for kai tahi and prizegiving – a chance to celebrate effort, teamwork, and community pride. The hosting students of TKEMKT gave an awesome kapa haka performance to close the day, reminding everyone of the talent and strength that lies within our taitamariki. Events like this are about so much more than sport. They are about creating spaces where taitamariki feel supported, seen, and celebrated. Many of the taitamariki who joined the Hone Heke Cup don’t always get the chance to be part of school sports teams or wider competitions. This kaupapa gave them that platform – and in doing so, it showed just how much they shine when given the chance. The day also reflected the power of collective effort. Each of the organisations involved works hard in their own way to uplift taitamariki in the mid-north. Coming together for the Hone Heke Cup showed that collaboration can achieve what no single service can do alone. The message was clear: our taitamariki thrive when the village stands together. The hope now is for the Hone Heke Cup to grow into a yearly tradition with more youth-focused organisations from across the rohe joining the kaupapa. Every new team adds fresh energy and expands the opportunities for taitamariki to connect through sport, fun, and shared pride. The trophies were handed out and the smiles said it all. The real highlight was seeing taitamariki walking away with a sense of pride, connection, and memories of a day that was theirs. The Hone Heke Cup has already proven to be more than a competition – it’s a kaupapa that keeps growing stronger each time. Cup sports day. Organised by Te Kotahitanga e Mahi Kaha Trust (TKEMKT), Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services (NISS), Ara Whakamaua (AW), and Regent Training Centre (RTC), the day brought taitamariki who often miss out on these experiences into the heart of healthy competition, whanaungatanga, and fun. From the first whistle, the park rang with cheering as taitamariki took to basketball, touch, and tug of war. Each game was hotly contested, with plenty of laughter, determination, and encouragement from the sidelines. The energy spilled over to the kaimahi, who joined in their own round of volleyball as part of the staff competition. Two trophies were introduced on the day: the Hone Heke Cup for the winning taitamariki organisation, and Te Kawa a Rāhiri for the staff champions. These trophies symbolise not just victory on the field, but the growing spirit of unity between local youth-focused services. As the games wrapped up, everyone gathered for kai tahi and prizegiving – a chance to celebrate effort, teamwork, and community pride. The hosting students of TKEMKT gave an awesome kapa haka performance to close the day, reminding everyone of the talent and strength that lies within our taitamariki. Events like this are about so much more than sport. They are about creating spaces where taitamariki feel supported, seen, and celebrated. Many of the taitamariki who joined the Hone Heke Cup don’t always get the chance to be part of school sports teams or wider competitions. This kaupapa gave them that platform – and in doing so, it showed just how much they shine when given the chance. The day also reflected the power of collective effort. Each of the organisations involved works hard in their own way to uplift taitamariki in the mid-north. Coming together for the Hone Heke Cup showed that collaboration can achieve what no single service can do alone. The message was clear: our taitamariki thrive when the village stands together. The hope now is for the Hone Heke Cup to grow into a yearly tradition with more youth-focused organisations from across the rohe joining the kaupapa. Every new team adds fresh energy and expands the opportunities for taitamariki to connect through sport, fun, and shared pride. The trophies were handed out and the smiles said it all. The real highlight was seeing taitamariki walking away with a sense of pride, connection, and memories of a day that was theirs. The Hone Heke Cup has already proven to be more than a competition – it’s a kaupapa that keeps growing stronger each time.

The 7th International Indigenous Voices in Social Work Conference was held in Calgary, Canada from 12–15 August 2025. Hosted by the University of Calgary’s Faculty of Social Work, the gathering drew Indigenous social workers, academics, policy makers, and community leaders from around the world. The theme, “One Child Every Child: Indigenous Ways of Knowing, Doing, Connecting, and Being for Advancing the Well-Being of Our Future Generations,” provided a fitting platform to showcase Ngāpuhi’s mahi, experiences, and aspirations for taitamariki. Representatives from Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services – Dr Moana Eruera, Eriata Peri, and Nola Naera – delivered three powerful presentations. The first highlighted the Mahuru Remand Programme, a tikanga-based alternative for taitamariki on remand, demonstrating the healing potential of whakapapa-centred approaches. The second, Taitamariki Māori Voices Challenging Western Discourse, explored how young people understand and navigate intimate partner relationships. Drawing on taitamariki perspectives, the kōrero unpacked healthy and unhealthy patterns, and introduced a decision-making tool designed to help taitamariki identify concerns in relationships and make empowered choices. The third focused on Ngāpuhi tamariki in state care and the actions being taken to address their over-representation. This included discussion of Ngāpuhi’s oral submissions in Parliament opposing the repeal of section 7AA of the Oranga Tamariki Act, and wider efforts where NISS and Ngāpuhi have stood for the rights and wellbeing of their tamariki. Each presentation was followed by many thoughtful questions from participants eager to learn more. Audience members expressed strong interest in Ngāpuhi approaches and sought guidance on how aspects of this mahi might be adapted within their own communities and contexts. Beyond the lecture theatre, the conference offered profound opportunities for cultural exchange and shared learning. Delegates participated in traditional Blackfoot ceremonies such as pipe and smudge, where karakia, drums, and chants created a powerful sense of connection across nations. An excursion day allowed for deeper immersion into Blackfoot worldviews. Eriata and Nola joined a group exploring local creation traditions and were guided through the tikanga of raising and dismantling a tipi, an experience rich with similarities to marae tikanga. Meanwhile, Dr Eruera entered the sweat lodge, a ceremony that embodied deep spiritual intensity. Within the enclosed heat and darkness, accompanied by drumbeats, singing, and the rising smoke of smudge, participants prayed, released, and reconnected with themselves and each other. For many, including Dr Eruera, it was a powerful reminder of the shared centrality of wairua in Indigenous healing practices. The final night culminated in a gala dinner where Indigenous drums, dance, storytelling, and kai tahi wove together communities from every corner of the globe. The richness of the experience lay not just in what was shared from the Ngāpuhi perspective, but also in what was brought home – a reaffirmation that Indigenous peoples everywhere carry unique but resonant knowledges, stories, and strategies for caring for their children and future generations.  The Calgary gathering affirmed that Ngāpuhi’s challenges and aspirations are part of a global narrative of Indigenous resilience and transformation. For NISS, the conference strengthened relationships, created new connections, and reaffirmed the value of continuing to stand proudly in Indigenous spaces worldwide. The learnings brought home will ripple outward – informing practice, inspiring taitamariki, and contributing to the collective journey of Ngāpuhi whānau.

The recent launch of the Haukāinga Ō Ngāpuhi podcast series marks a significant moment for Ngāpuhi whānau, offering a platform for our people to share their stories, reflect on their histories, and engage in vital conversations that shape our future. Led by Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services (NISS), this series provides an opportunity for whānau to speak openly about their experiences, aspirations, and the deep connections they maintain with their whenua and whakapapa. The topics featured in the series are diverse and engaging, reflecting the wide range of experiences within Ngāpuhi. Early episodes dive into discussions about the vision for Ngāpuhi’s future, with community leaders like Eru and Heemi Kapa-Kingi offering their insights on the iwi’s direction over the next five years. These kōrero touch on the importance of cultural identity, the need for whānau unity, and the role of future generations in upholding Ngāpuhi values. While each voice shared on the podcast comes from someone with whakapapa to Ngāpuhi, the perspectives expressed are personal and do not speak on behalf of the entire iwi. Unity within Ngāpuhi does not require uniformity. This platform honours the richness of our differences, allowing whānau to speak their truth in a way that encourages respectful listening and deeper understanding among us all. In addition to exploring these key themes, the podcast also captures the voices of everyday whānau members, including those from different walks of life, sharing their personal stories and the everyday realities they face. These conversations not only highlight the strength and resilience of Ngāpuhi but also create a sense of connection that transcends geographic boundaries, particularly for those who may not have regular access to their iwi. The accessibility of the Haukāinga podcast series offers an important opportunity for younger audiences to engage with the lived experiences of their elders as well as their peers. Through this modern medium, the wisdom and insights of our kaumatua and kuia are made available to the next generation, helping to build a bridge between the past and the future. This enables taitamariki to reflect on their whakapapa and the long history of Ngāpuhi while also considering their place in its future. As the series continues to evolve, it is expected to inspire more kōrero, reflection, and engagement within the Ngāpuhi community. It stands as a testament to the mana of Ngāpuhi whānau—individuals whose stories, struggles, and successes will help shape the iwi for generations to come. Whānau who would like to tune in and join the conversation can find the Haukāinga Ō Ngāpuhi podcast available on YouTube and Spotify. Keep an eye out for future releases and engage with the stories that define our iwi. For updates on new episodes, you can also follow Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services on their social media pages, including Instagram and Facebook.

Since opening its doors on April 30, Whata Kai in Kaikohe has become more than just a place to access food. It is a space where mana is restored, needs are met with care, and whānau are reminded of their inherent value. Developed in partnership between Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services (NISS) and Foodstuffs North Island, Whata Kai uses a points-based system that allows whānau to shop with dignity. Rather than receiving prepacked food parcels, whānau choose their own kai, with many fresh items, such as local produce, costing zero points. In just its first eight days, 34 whānau walked through the doors. Feedback has been described as overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed surprise at the range and quality of kai and items. Others felt emotional at being able to choose freely without judgement. “Absolutely loved my shop. I didn’t feel the pressure. Thank you.” “I felt really welcomed and cared about.” “Customer service fantastic. I was not belittled.” “Such a beautiful wairua in this space.” Behind the scenes, Whata Kai is part of a broader support system. When whānau reach out to NISS, their needs are gently assessed and connected to the right support. This includes not just kai, but housing, health, addiction, and cultural reconnection. This holistic approach ensures that while the fridge is filled, so too is the wairua. A recent highlight has been the addition of rongoā Māori, generously provided by Tohe Ashby and Mahinga Māhuru. Offering these traditional natural remedies alongside kai brings together hauora and healing under one kaupapa. The service hub Te Pūtahi Nui o Rehua (TPNOR) has also stepped up to support the Whata Kai kaupapa. Their kaimahi work closely with whānau they are already supporting, identifying those who are in need of kai and referring them to Whata Kai. Beyond food support, they contribute to the wider kaupapa by offering services like rongoā and budgeting advice. Their role ensures that Whata Kai is not a standalone service, but part of a wider, collaborative effort to uplift and empower whānau across the rohe. Whata Kai supports whānau within the Kaikohe rohe who need kai support. Whānau can be referred through one of the service hubs: Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services or Te Pūtahi Nui o Rehua. These hubs kōrero with whānau to understand their needs and offer the most appropriate support. Donna Hulmes, NISS Social Supermarket Manager, says, “We’re so proud of the wairua and manaakitanga that’s growing around this space. Whata Kai is clearly filling a vital need. Not just for kai, but for connection, dignity, and care.” Kaimahi speak of the subtle shifts in those who visit. Posture straightens, shoulders ease, and confidence returns. It is not just about full puku. It is about restoring trust and reminding every whānau member they are worthy of support, not charity. As Whata Kai continues to grow, plans are underway to strengthen ties with local growers, expand cultural resources, and deepen wraparound support. This kaupapa isn’t just changing how food is shared. It is helping people feel seen, valued, and never alone in their journey.

As the nation’s most prestigious kapa haka festival, Te Matatini brings together iwi from across Aotearoa in a powerful showcase of mātauranga, te reo, and cultural pride. This year, amongst the waiata, haka, and whanaungatanga, Ngāpuhi voices carried messages of identity, resilience, and connection. For many, Te Matatini is more than a competition—it is a space where Māori excellence thrives, a platform for whakapapa, and a moment for whānau to celebrate their shared heritage. Kapa haka was recognised as a crucial part of reclaiming identity, with the revitalisation of waiata and mōteatea seen as essential in strengthening the connection to Te Whare Tapu o Ngāpuhi. Amongst the celebrations, the Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services (NISS) podcast crew provided an opportunity for Ngāpuhi performers from different kapa haka groups to share their stories and reflections. It became a space for them to voice their aspirations, acknowledge challenges, and celebrate their place within te ao Māori. The festival highlighted the presence of Ngāpuhi across all groups, with many uri living beyond Te Whare Tapu. Codi Clarke reflected, “The stats show most of our people live away from home, but Matatini reminded us just how widespread Ngāpuhi is. No matter where we are, it’s a space where we can be proud to be Ngāpuhi.” In a light-hearted and creative moment, the NISS crew introduced a new hand symbol called Whare Tapu Up!—a unique gesture all about connection and whānau. The symbol was formed by participants shaping their hands into the shape of a whare. When someone called out “Wharetapu up!” the group responded by smoothly pulling their hands together to create the symbol. It became a fun and meaningful way to express unity, adding a touch of playfulness to the kaupapa while deepening the sense of whanaungatanga.  These kōrero, recorded at Te Matatini, will continue to resonate far beyond the festival through Podcasts. As the voices of Ngāpuhi are captured and shared, they are contributing to a broader movement of cultural revival and connection. In the spirit of this ongoing journey, the NISS podcast crew has been traveling across the motu, gathering powerful kōrero from communities at various gatherings and events, and now these Ngāpuhi voices are being brought together to share with whānau across Aotearoa. Stay tuned for the launch of the Ngāpuhi podcast, where the voices from Te Matatini and beyond will be heard by whānau nationwide.

A collective effort is bringing a much-needed social supermarket to Kaikohe, with Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services (NISS) working alongside key partners to support whānau facing economic hardship. In response to rising living costs, this initiative—made possible through collaboration between NISS, mahinga kai experts, and project coordinators—aims to provide relief through access to affordable kai, fresh produce, and wider community support. The idea for this kaupapa was sparked by the NISS Community Connector, who identified the need to strengthen the existing support network in Kaikohe and improve access to affordable kai for whānau experiencing food insecurity. To meet this need, NISS proposed the establishment of a social supermarket alongside the development of a mahinga kai for the supply of fresh produce. Completion of the mahinga kai development, led by mahinga kai specialist Paula Hohua alongside Fred Hohua, was celebrated on 19 December 2024. Their expertise has been instrumental in ensuring the Mahuru Mahinga Kai is not only producing fresh food for whānau but also serving as an educational space where taitamariki involved in NISS remand services and programmes can gain hands-on experience in kai sustainability. The mahinga also features rongoā plantings for healing and treatment, reinforcing its holistic approach to wellbeing. The logistics and project coordination for the social supermarket have been carefully managed by Marlene Richardt of Kaupapa Collective Ltd, ensuring the premises, lease, and licensing processes run smoothly. Meanwhile, Shirleyanne Brown from WotMatters Ltd has played a key role in engaging with community and key local services ensuring the foundation of the Social Supermarket and other support offered is built on what matters to whānau and has the support of local services including key food networks in designing a sustainable operating model to keep the kaupapa thriving in the long term. Renovations are well underway at the Social Supermarket site, located at 25 Raihara Street, with the grand opening scheduled for 30 April 2025. NISS, responsible for budget coordination, project monitoring, programme oversight, and whānau engagement, continues to ensure the initiative remains focused on delivering practical support to those who need it most. Donna Hulmes will oversee the supermarket’s day-to-day operations, including supplier relationships, staffing, and ongoing management. The mahinga and supermarket are part of a framework that will include: ● Whānau space – a safe and inviting area where whānau can rest, enjoy a cuppa, and engage in kōrero. ● Mahinga kai – a hub for sharing and distributing locally grown produce. ● Kāuta – a learning space for sharing mātauranga about kai preparation and encouraging a love for healthy food. ● Pātaka – a social supermarket providing essential staples to support whānau experiencing financial hardship. This initiative stands as a Tupuna led, whānau driven kāupapa , weaving together the threads of cultural pride, collective action, and practical support. As the work continues, it represents a powerful example of Ngāpuhi’s dedication to creating opportunities for whānau to thrive, strengthened by the collaborative efforts of those working behind the scenes to make it a reality.

Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services (NISS), Mana Mokopuna – Children and Young People’s Commission, and ĀKAU Foundation teamed up to provide a platform for mokopuna and their whānau to share their voices at Waitangi this year. Te Whare Tātaki Taitamariki near Waitangi Marae served as a space for taitamariki to engage in discussions, express their aspirations, and connect with their whakapapa. The Ngāpuhi podcast caravan was on site, capturing taitamariki perspectives to ensure their voices continue to shape conversations about their future and wellbeing. As part of the kaupapa, 11-year-old Te Ohomairangi Smith gained hands-on experience as a mokopuna podcast interviewer by conducting interviews alongside Pio at Waitangi, helping to ensure that taitamariki voices were captured and shared. The taitamariki tent featured panel discussions, a ‘chill zone,’ and interactive activities designed to create a welcoming space where young people felt valued and empowered. Visitors also had the chance to kōrero with Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services Chief Executive Dr Moana Eruera and Chief Children’s Commissioner Dr Claire Achmad. Dr Achmad emphasised, "Waitangi Day is a time to listen to the perspectives of young people. Their voices will continue to inform our independent advocacy for mokopuna across the country." Taitamariki voiced both aspirations and frustrations. One speaker called for strong role models, stating, "Expose us to good role models, show us the best way to do things, then over time Te Iwi Māori will be thriving." Another urged adults to remove barriers: "Adults need to remove the glass ceiling to ensure our taitamariki can ascend to wherever they wish to go!" A strong call for the return of tribal lands emerged from all taitamariki panelists, with the youngest stating, "Just give our land back, and we will share." Taitamariki also spoke of the strength derived from their connection to whakapapa, acknowledging how important it was to know their history and identity. "We wish all Māori children to have the privilege of knowing who they are just like we do. It gives us strength, and we know we are part of something bigger." NISS Pou Ahurea Alva Pomare reinforced this sentiment, stating, "We see disconnected mokopuna every day, mokopuna that we see and sit with have the right to know their whānau, hapū, and kōwai rātou. When they do, they grow in confidence and feel the strength of generations standing behind them. That’s what we want for all our mokopuna." ĀKAU Foundation’s Temepara Hita highlighted the intent to empower young voices: "Our youth are the leaders of tomorrow. We want them to feel heard and encouraged to share their aspirations. Their voices are crucial to shaping the future, and it's our responsibility to make space for them." Dr Moana Eruera emphasised the need for taitamariki to engage with He Whakapūtanga and Te Tiriti ō Waitangi: "Children's rights unde UNCROC (United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child) are everyone's rights, but in Aotearoa, Te Tiriti o Waitangi gives our Māori tamariki an extra layer of safety and protection that I don't see being activated. We have to activate that, we have to activate it differently, we have to acknowledge the indigenous space and positioning of tamariki Māori in Aotearoa." Te Tiriti o Waitangi is not just a historical document; it is a living agreement that requires ongoing commitment. The future is in the hands of taitamariki, and it is the responsibility of all to clear the path ahead. The voices of taitamariki at Waitangi were not just words—they were a call to action. With panelists expressing frustration at a lack of action: "Don’t listen just to respond, but to actually hear us, take on board what we have been saying, and follow through with real action. We need to see the promises being kept, not just words spoken for show." Protecting and uplifting mokopuna is a shared responsibility. Adults, leaders, and communities must listen, act, and create meaningful change for the future. NISS, with over 30 years of experience, remains committed to strengthening Ngāpuhi whānau, hapū, and communities. Mana Mokopuna advocates for all children and young people in Aotearoa, while ĀKAU Foundation fosters creativity and innovation, supporting taitamariki in Te Tai Tokerau to shape brighter futures through design and storytelling.

Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services (NISS) has recently launched an exciting initiative to capture the essence of Ngāpuhi voices through a state-of-the-art podcast caravan. This innovative mobile tool is designed to gather the stories, whakaaro, and aspirations of Ngāpuhi people, providing a platform for them to express themselves and maintain the precious mātauranga passed down through generations. The podcast caravan made its debut at the recent Auckland stop of the Apiti Hono Tatai Hono roadshow, where it was met with enthusiasm. Ngāpuhi members shared their knowledge, stories, and hopes for the future, which are now recorded and ready to be preserved for generations to come. The NISS team has been training multiple staff to operate the podcast equipment, ensuring they are prepared to capture these important narratives. This project is not just about the technical aspect; it’s about amplifying the voices of the people. It is an exciting tool for connecting with Ngāpuhi members far and wide, fostering an ongoing dialogue between the past and present. The caravan represents a bridge between kaumatua, kuia, and mokopuna, ensuring that the wisdom and experiences of Ngāpuhi are never lost, allowing the innovative nature of taitamariki to be guided in the most authentic way. As this project grows, so will its impact, offering the ability to gather untold stories from the wider Ngāpuhi whānau—stories that might otherwise have remained unheard. By taking a mobile approach, the podcast caravan will make it possible to reach those who cannot always come home to the North, further connecting and empowering the iwi.