📅 Opening April 30th – Kaikohe’s Social Supermarket This is a special space designed for whānau who need a hand with kai. To come through, you’ll need a referral from NISS or one of our local service hubs — that way, we can make sure support is going to those who need it most. It’s not just about groceries. It’s about manaaki, whanaungatanga, and standing strong as a community. More info and a website coming soon.

In early 2024, the NISS Community Connector presented to the Minister of Social Development, identifying the urgent need to strengthen Kaikohe’s kai network and improve access to affordable food for whānau facing food insecurity. With support from MSD, Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services launched two key initiatives: 🌿 Mahinga Kai – Established at Māhuru in June 2024, this space produces fresh kai for whānau in need and supports taitamariki with life skills training in growing and preparing food. 🛒 Kaikohe Social Supermarket – In partnership with Foodstuffs and New World Kaikohe, this social supermarket will support up to 50 whānau each week. It operates on a points system based on whānau size, with goods ranging from 0 to 5 points, and a kōha is encouraged. This was co-designed with community voices to build mana, enhance capability, and connect whānau to wider support, from financial literacy to training pathways. It’s more than a place to shop; it’s a safe space to rest, share a cup of tea, and engage in meaningful conversation. Together, these initiatives are grounded in whakapapa and driven by the needs and strengths of our Kaikohe community. 💚 More information coming next week.

We’re Hiring! Join our team as a Youth Worker. 📍 Full-time, 12-month fixed term | Based in Kaikohe Support rangatahi and their whānau through Haumaru Taiao — a collective, community-led response to reduce harm and provide wraparound support. Details: 🗓 Closing Date: 27 April 2025 🔗 Job description is in our bio. 📧 To Apply: Contact Debbie Tomaras at [email protected] or call 09 401 5548 for an Application Form.

James Hou, one of our incredible youth mentors and mātua atawhai, shares how the mara kai in Kaikohe is more than just a garden — it’s a place of healing, learning, and connection for our whānau. On 30 April, Kaikohe’s very own social supermarket will open its doors, and the kai grown right here will be shared with our community. This is just the beginning, whānau — we’ll be sharing more throughout the month, so stay tuned and follow along. ❤️

There’s more than one way to support our mokopuna - and we’re here to help you find the path that’s right for you and your whānau. 🫂 Every journey starts with a kōrero. Our NISS Iwi Practitioners can talk you through the different care options and what might suit your circumstances best.

FAQ: What about Ngāpuhi tamariki located outside of Te Tai Tokerau? We get this pātai a lot in relation to our Mātua Atawhai campaign — and the answer is simple. We’re looking for Mātua Atawhai across all of Aotearoa to support our mokopuna, wherever they live. That includes our Ngāpuhi tamariki in Tāmaki Makaurau and right across the motu. If you're curious about becoming a Mātua Atawhai, toro mai! Our team is here for a kōrero whenever you're ready.

🍯 Mahuru Programme in Action! 🍯 Our Mahuru Programme with NISS is all about building skills and supporting whānau! Twice a week, Paula Hohua runs hands-on workshops with Mahuru mentors and teina, teaching essential skills like preserving, propagating, and planning for the Mahinga Kai. Check out this beautiful beetroot chutney—made with aroha! 💜 Some jars are available for $10 each, while others are being stored for our Social Supermarket, ensuring our whānau have access to healthy, homegrown kai. Ka mau te wehi! 🙌🏽✨

✨ NISS Leadership Planning Days ✨ Two days of kōrero, reflection, and vision-setting for the year ahead! 🙌🏽 It was awesome to come together, align our priorities, and plan for the future. A huge thank you to our friend Dave Wood for capturing it all through incredible graphic recordings! 🎨📖 Exciting times ahead—let’s go! 🚀

🌿 Meet Lucy! 🌿 For the past 14 years, Lucy has been a pillar of support as a Social Worker in Schools with Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services. Born and raised in Waitangi, Oromahoe, and Te Ahuahu, her whakapapa is at the heart of everything she does. A proud graduate of Greenland Nursing School (Class of '83), Lucy brings decades of experience and a deep passion for whānau wellbeing. Oh, and if you ever want to win her over—mutton bird is the way to her heart! 🐦🍽 #Ngāpuhi

Here’s one of our Ngāpuhi whakataukī! ✨ Have you heard this one before? What does it mean to you and your whānau? Share your thoughts in the comments! 👇🏽🖤 #Ngāpuhi

Something exciting is on the way! 🎙🔥 We’ve been traveling across the motu, capturing powerful kōrero from our people at major Māori events. Now, we’re bringing these voices together to share with whānau across Aotearoa. The Ngāpuhi podcast is almost here—stay tuned! 🖤 #Ngāpuhi

Last year, we created a series of videos to give whānau a deeper look into what it truly means to be a mātua atawhai with us. We sat down with mātua atawhai, kaimahi, and those dedicated to supporting our mokopuna—capturing their experiences and insights. If this speaks to you and you’d like to learn more, reach out—we’re here to help. Enjoy! 🎥✨ #MātuaAtawhai #WhānauSupport #ForOurMokopuna

This week we are supporting a hui in Prevention against elderly abuse! Join us for kōrero, connection and action this Thursday from 12.00 pm to 3.00 pm at Te Wa on Broadway in Kaikohe. What to expect: Free information Kōrero from practitioners and facilitators Giveaways Light lunch Afternoon tea Registrations are a must, and spots are limited. Please email [email protected] or phone Yvonne on 021 977 214 abuse!

Whānau, we want to hear from you! 💬✨ What’s the best wisdom or life lesson your kuia and kaumātua shared with you growing up? Drop it in the comments, and let’s celebrate the knowledge passed down through generations! 👇🏽

Ngāpuhi whānau, we need you! 💙 We’re looking for mātua atawhai to provide care, love, and stability for our Ngāpuhi tamariki. If you’re currently a caregiver with Oranga Tamariki and whakapapa to Ngāpuhi, now is the time to make the transition and support our tamariki within their iwi. Interested? Send us a private message or reach out using the details below. Let’s keep our tamariki connected to their whakapapa, culture, and whānau. 📞 Phone: 09 401 5548 📧 Email: [email protected] 📍 Address: 12 Marino Place, Kaikohe ⏳ Opening Hours: Monday - Friday | 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Matakitaki i ā mātou ataata! 🎥✨ Watch our videos on our website to learn more about us: 🌐 www.niss.org.nz

Kia ora e te whānau! Kataraina Pipi, Katie Murray, Dr Maria Baker, alongside our CEO, Dr Moana Eruera will be hosting a free event on Wednesday the 9th of April. The wānanga is designed for kaupapa Māori providers and kaimahi working in the family violence and sexual violence sector. If you’re involved in this mahi or have insights to share, this is a valuable opportunity for you. The day will cover whanaungatanga, workshops on what’s working (and what’s not), feedback on the Te Rau Ora National Māori Workforce Development Project and Wai Rangahau – Toiora Whānau Māori Outcomes Framework, and strategies for inspiring collective impact. Please register on the link in our bio. Kai and refreshments will be provided. Mauri ora!

🌟 Mātua Atawhai — More Than Caregivers 🌟 Mātua Atawhai are champions for mokopuna ora, nurturing their wellbeing while honouring their connections to whakapapa, whānau, hapū and iwi. Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services is here to walk alongside all our Mātua Atawhai, supporting you every step of the way as we uphold our collective responsibilities to the mokopuna in our care. Keen to learn more about becoming a Mātua Atawhai with NISS? Send us a message — we’d love to kōrero! #Ngāpuhi #MātuaAtawhai

✨ What is a Mātua Atawhai? ✨ Mātua Atawhai are approved caregivers who open their hearts and homes to mokopuna and taitamariki who, for now, can’t live with their parents or usual caregivers. These incredible caregivers provide safe, nurturing and culturally grounded care, helping to protect the oranga (wellbeing) of our mokopuna while keeping them connected to their whānau and whakapapa. Mātua Atawhai offer different types of care, depending on the needs of each mokopuna — all guided by Ngāpuhi tikanga, nurturing them back to a place of tapu and mana. Keen to learn more? Visit our website or send us a message — we’d love to kōrero! #Ngāpuhi #MātuaAtawhai

Akongia ngā waiata tawhito ō Ngāpuhi kia kore ai koe me ō tātou kōrero e ngaro. Learn and teach our Ngāpuhi waiata tawhito so you and our history are not lost in the world. – Winnie Leach. Youtube link in our bio! #ngapuhi

Throwback to an epic day at Waitangi last month, where us wāhine got to step out of the office and enjoy a little moment together. From left to right: Erena Kara (NISS Board Chair), Dr Moana Eruera (NISS CEO), Dr Gail Pacheco (Equal Employment Commissioner), Dr Melissa Derby (Race Relations Commissioner), Codi Clarke (NISS Iwi programme facilitator) & Manawa Pomare (Pou Arahi, Human Rights Commission). It’s always a privilege to connect and collaborate with these incredible wāhine as we work together to uplift and support the growth and wellbeing of our mokopuna. #Ngāpuhi

Ngāpuhi mokopuna connected to whakapapa! 🖤 We’re looking for mātua atawhai (caregivers) to provide loving, iwi-led care for our Ngāpuhi mokopuna in need. Our approach is different from the government—we prioritise whakapapa, tikanga, and iwi-based practice to ensure our mokopuna are nurtured in a way that honours who they are. 💫 Join us today—because the future of our mokopuna starts with us. Send us a message, and we’ll be in touch! #Ngāpuhi

Mokopuna leading the way! A few weeks ago, Te Ohomairangi Smith our NISS mokopuna representative stood proudly alongside our Ngāpuhi whānau, providing an opening waiata for this oral submission on the Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi Bill. Te Ohomairangi travelled to Te Whanganui a Tara alongside Alva Pomare, Moana Tuwhare and Mane Tahere. Seeing our mokopuna step confidently into well-supported leadership roles is inspiring — it’s a natural and essential part of how we move forward as an iwi. Our mokopuna have so much to teach us, just as we have so much to share with them. Watch Te Ohomairangi in action, showing the strength, courage, and leadership of our next generation. #Ngāpuhi

Te Matatini o Te Kāhui Maunga 2025 #tematatini #ngapuhi #wharetapu

Whare Tapu UP!🔥 Te Matatini o Te Kāhui Maunga 2025 #tematatini #ngapuhi #wharetapu

Day 3: Te Kei 2025 Te Matatini o Te Kāhui Maunga. 🍩🍩🍩 #tematatini #ngapuhi #kai

Day 3: Te Kei 2025 Te Matatini o Te Kāhui Maunga. #haka #55kapa #ngapuhi #tematatini

Want to grab some Ngāpuhi merch? Head down to the Seaside Markets on Puke Ariki Street in New Plymouth and pick up your gear 👕. Rep Te Tai Tokerau hard at Te Matatini 2025!🔥 #tematatini #ngapuhi #haka #55kapa #merch

Day 2: Te Haumi 2025 Te Matatini o Te Kāhui Maunga. Pio has arrived!🤌🏾 #tematatini #ngapuhi #Tehaumi #day2

Day 1: Part 6 2025 Te Matatini o Te Kāhui Maunga. Manaakitanga🤝

Day 1: Part 5 2025 Te Matatini o Te Kāhui Maunga. Checking out the stage 🔥 #tematatini #tematatini2025 #ngapuhi #kapahaka

Day 1: Part 4 2025 Te Matatini o Te Kāhui Maunga. WHARE TAPU UP‼️ if you see us around don’t forget to show us your whare tapu sign #tematatini #tematatini2025 #ngapuhi

Day 1: Part 3 2025 Te Matatini o Te Kāhui Maunga. Ara Hīkoi ki Te Matatini o Te Kāhui Maunga 🚶🏾‍♀️ #tematatini #tematatini2025 #ngāpuhi #hikoi

Day 1: Part 2 2025 Te Matatini o Te Kāhui Maunga. Behind the scenes of our podcast caravan 🚐🎙️ Don’t be shy, come kōrero with us! 👋 #tematatini #tematatini2025 #ngapuhi #bts

Day 1 2025 Te Matatini o Te Kāhui Maunga. We’re here and ready to roll! Catch us at the Gate B entrance. Nau mai haere mai ki Te Haukāinga Podcast🎙️ We want to hear from our Ngāpuhi whanau about their experiences as Kaihaka 🔥 #tematatini #ngāpuhi #niss #tematatini2025 #TeHaukāinga #wharetapu #Podcast #Ngāpuhi

We need more Mātua Atawhai to ensure our mokopuna know their whakapapa story. "Majority of these kids just haven't had the best start of life." Every day, we work to create a better future for our mokopuna. We want all our mokopuna to be connected to who they are, their whakapapa, and their identity. James and Megan Hou speaking on building bonds as Mātua Atawhai. Full versions will be on our website soon e te iwi!

📢 We’re looking for Mātua Atawhai (Ngāpuhi caregivers)! ❤️ Join us in providing a safe, loving home for our mokopuna. We walk alongside you every step of the way, ensuring you have the support and resources you need. Want to learn more? Check out our dedicated webpage, explore the info, and watch our videos. 🎥👇

At 10.00am Dr Moana Eruera and Youth Services, Sharon Armstrong will be making a live submission in Parliament! See our story for information.

Ngā mihi nui, whānau! 🌿 ✨ A huge thank you to everyone who visited our activation at Waitangi – we are blown away by the incredible talent of our young people! Our young people are our future! 🙌 Over the next few weeks, we’ll share some epic moments from this special event—stay tuned! 📸🎉 Big aroha to the Children’s Commission and Ākau Foundation for their amazing tautoko in bringing this kaupapa to life. 💛 Did you come visit us this Waitangi?

We are here at Waitangi. Come see us whānau! Lesssshhhhh goooo #niss #ngapuhi

Come join us at 11am for our taitamariki panel discussions! #niss #ngāpuhi

Our activations are all about taitamariki this Waitangi. Come see us and share your kōrero! #ngāpuhi

Come kōrero with us! #Ngāpuhi

“The need and demand is huge, and our babies are waiting.” �Mātua Atawhai are approved caregivers who provide a safe, nurturing and culturally appropriate environment for mokopuna (children) and taitamariki (youth) who cannot live with their parents or usual caregivers. Visit our website to find out more information. www.niss.org.nz #ngapuhi #NISS #matuaatawhai

📢 Whakanui te Reo o ngā Taitamariki – Amplifying the Voices of Our Youth Join us for Waitangi Festival Week 2025 on Wednesday, 5 February and Thursday, 6 February at Waitangi Marae! For the first time, we’re introducing Te Whare Tātaki Taitamariki, a vibrant space dedicated to celebrating the diversity and whakapapa of our taitamariki and amplifying their voices. This collaborative initiative is brought to you by Mana Mokopuna, Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services, and the ĀKAU Foundation, located near Te Tou Rangatira Field. #ngapuhi #mokopuna #taitamariki #tamariki

Mane Tahere, Tiamana o Te Rūnanga ā Iwi o Ngāpuhi is part of Te Roopu Whāiti – A Ngāpuhi Collective! He shares what and how Te Roopu Whāiti came about! “Bringing a group that authentically takes into account our tikanga and our kawa, once and for all, really focussing on an approach that truly is Ngāpuhi. 💙 Click the link in our bio to watch Mane’s full kōrero on our YouTube channel.

Tia Ashby, Te Tumu Whakarae/CEO at Te Hau Ora o Ngāpuhi is part of Te Roopu Whāiti – A Ngāpuhi Collective! Here, she shares her aspirations and vision for our iwi, and how our people can achieve Pae Ora. “I believe that every tamariki and mokopuna deserves to grow up in an environment where they feel safe, secure and loved.” 💙 Tia Ashby, Te Tumu Whakarae/CEO at Te Hau Ora o Ngāpuhi, is part of Te Roopu Whāiti – A Ngāpuhi Collective!

'Rahiri Te Tūpuna' he waiata nā Mutunga Rameka. Here we have the kupu to another beautiful traditional Ngāpuhi waiata. 🎶 You can search the tune on Youtube if needed e te whānau.

ABOVE THE RIM PROGRAMME NEXT WEEK! Limited day spots are available! 🏀🥎🏀🥎   Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services and Mid North United Sports will be running ABOVE THE RIM next week, a holiday kids’ and youth sports wananga for children ages 10-13 and youths 12-17. Day spots are only available (no overnight spots). The program will run from Tuesday, 14, to Thursday, 16. The daily start time is 11 a.m., and it ends at 2 p.m. The single cost is $20pp.   SPORTS: Basketball, Softball and other activities.   For more information, contact Melvin on 027 254 7384

Helene Leaf, Reo Kōrero mo ngā Hapū is part of Te Roopu Whāiti – A Ngāpuhi Collective! She shares what her mahi is and the impact she has on Te Roopu Whāiti. “We’re in there supporting them, to look after their tamariki. To me, that's really important, too.” ❤️

Kia ora e te iwi! 🏀 This Saturday is the trials for the 2025 Sacred Waves USA Tour. We will select 24 players to come together to play basketball in the USA. Here are the details: Venue: Papa Hawaiiki- Kaikohe This weekend: Saturday 11th January 2025 Time: 9.00am to 12.00pm To be selected to be the following: U14/U16 BOYS - U16/18 GIRLS No pre-registration is required. Show up on Saturday before 9.00 am. BLESSED WITH THE BEST AND BEST NEVER REST ❤️🔥

While out enjoying the water or our beautiful taiao around it with your whānau, remember to show respect and manaaki the environment. Leave it as you found it or better. A few important reminders: 💛 Respect any rāhui (harvest bans) in place. 💛 Only take what you need - never more. 💛 Coastal areas are not rubbish dumps. Take your waste with you. 💛 The Moana is not a toilet - keep it clean. Do you have any important protocols your whānau have in place?

Tēnā koutou e te iwi! We are back to regular working hours today. ⏰ Monday - Friday 9.00 am - 5:00 pm Contact us if you need support or want to know more about our services!

Our mission will continue to guide our mahi through 2025. "We provide quality social services that promote and strengthen healthy lifestyles, healing and intergenerational wellbeing for whānau, hapū and communities." What are your aspirations for 2025, e te iwi? Let us know in the comments.

"Ngāpuhi mokopuna are three times more overrepresented in the care and protection and youth justice system than any other iwi. It's a crisis, and we want to be part of the solution." - Dr Moana Eruera, CEO of NISS There is an urgent need to ensure the safety of our mokopuna. In 2025, we will make a big shift to move our mokopuna out of state care and reconnected to whakapapa where they belong. Link to the full interview in our bio.

Keep your whānau safe in the sun! Our pēpi have sensitive skin so it's really important to keep them out of direct sunlight. We all know the saying: "Slip, Slop, Slap and Wrap." It’s the best way to protect your skin and eyes from the sun’s harsh rays!

Ngā Mihi o te tau hou pākehā e tātou mā! We wish everyone the best for the new year and hope that you and your whānau are having a safe and happy holiday season. Mauri ora ki te iwi!

We’re Hiring! | Iwi Social Work Practitioners 💥 Kia ora koutou! Are you passionate about creating positive change for our whānau? We’re hiring three dedicated individuals to support whānau through Education or Justice. Key Information: 📅 Application Deadline Extended: 31 January 2025 📄 Learn More: Full job description available in our bio.

Every year in Aotearoa, we lose far too many loved ones to preventable drownings. Knowing something as simple as how to float could save a life. The Water Safety Code is easy to follow and could make all the difference! Comment below, and we will send you the water safety code link. #watersafety #watersafetyawareness #ngāpuhi

Meri Kirihimete e te whānau! 🎅☀️🎉 We wish you all a safe and enjoyable summer. From everyone here at Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services. #ngāpuhi

More whānau traveling to see loved ones means more cars on the roads 🚗 With whānau gathering across the motu this summer, our roads will be busier than usual. When you’re out on the road make sure you buckle up, drive to the conditions, drive sober, and put the phone away when driving. Everyone deserves to arrive safely! Kia haumaru te haere e te iwi.

Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services Christmas Hours 🎄🎁 We’ve adjusted our office hours this festive season. We’re here to support you—don’t hesitate to reach out if you need tautoko. Stay safe, and enjoy the holidays with your whānau! 📍 Address: 12 Marino Place, Kaikohe 📞 Phone: 09 401 5548 #Ngāpuhi

"My tupuna set the foundation for us. They did everything in their power to keep us safe. They've left that responsibility to me to keep our moko safe." ❤️ A powerful statement by Anahira Pumipi, one of our Mātua Atawhai.

“What we see in the media is the end result. What we don’t see is the hardship those young people have gone through, the hardship their whānau have gone through, the issues that they’re facing on a day to day basis. The fact that these children aren’t attending school because there are too many issues going on at home for them.” - Sharon Armstrong, manager of our Māhuru Programme. A snippet from the interview Dr Moana Eruera and Sharon Armstrong had last week on the Waatea Radio with Dale husband. Link in our bio to listen to the full interview.

A big mihi to everyone who attended our Ngāpuhi AGM this past Saturday. ⭐️ It was heartwarming to see our whanaunga come together to connect, kōrero, and celebrate the incredible mahi happening across our iwi. From the presentations to the fun taitamariki activities and kai hākari, the day was filled with manaakitanga and community spirit. Special thanks to everyone who shared their time and energy to make this event successful. We are proud of the strides we’re making as Ngāpuhi, and your support ensures we continue to grow together. Kia kaha tātou! #NgāpuhiAGM #Whanaungatanga

🎉🎉🎉 Anei e te whānau! Our winners of our Ngāpuhi kamupūtu. 👏🏽 Kaikohe: Te Kotahitanga Para 👏🏽 Whangārei: Mildred Agatha 👏🏽 Auckland: Jessie Wakeling 👏🏽 Christchurch: Andrew Williams 👏🏽 Wellington: Kahurangi Yakas 👏🏽 Hamilton: Rob Batters It’s been an absolute privilege connecting with our whānau across Aotearoa. We've witnessed the warmth of whakawhanaungatanga, strengthened bonds with familiar faces, and formed new connections. Ngā mihi nui to everyone who shared in this journey with us. He uri koe na Rāhiri - He mokopuna nāku! Proud to be Ngāpuhi ❤️🖤 If you haven't received your bespoke red bands, contact us, and we will ensure they get to you!

🌟 Ngāpuhi AGM - This Saturday! 🌟 📍Ngāwha Innovation & Enterprise Park ⏱ Doors open: 9:00 AM ⏱ Whakatau: 10:00 AM ⏱ AGM begins: 11:30 AM ✨ What’s happening: 👉 Presentations from the Rūnanga Group, Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services, Te Hauora o Ngāpuhi, and Ngāpuhi Asset Holdings Company. 👉 Exhibitions showcasing their mahi with opportunities to kōrero and ask questions. 👉 A pop-up Christmas store with stunning Ngāpuhi merchandise, free giveaways, and exclusive deals on kākahu. 👉 Fun for our taitamariki, including a mahi toi tēneti and a bouncy castle! 👉 Whānau insights from the Haerenga team. 👉 Free mirimiri for relaxation and rejuvenation. 👉 Kai hākari to conclude the day. 💛 Join us for a day of connection, inspiration, and fun! 📍 Nau mai, haere mai! #NgāpuhiAGM

We're Hiring! Join our team as an Iwi Social Work Practitioner! We are looking for 3 passionate practitioners to deliver whānau-based services in Education, within the school setting or justice, within the family court setting. Details: 🗓 Closing Date: 15 December 2024 🔗 Job description: IN BIO 📧 To Apply: Contact Debbie Tomaras at [email protected] or call 09 401 5548 for an Application Form. #NgāpuhiIwiSocialServices #NISSJobs

Alva Pomare, our very own Pou Ahurea, is part of Te Roopu Whāiti – A Ngāpuhi Collective! This collective honours our tikanga and kawa, ensuring it’s not just another token strategy but a true representation of the Ngāpuhi voice. Did you know there are nearly three times more Ngāpuhi mokopuna in care than any other iwi? “Mokopuna of Ngāpuhi descent have the absolute right to be well, to be safe, to be cared for.” ❤️ Click the link in our bio to watch Alva’s full kōrero on our YouTube channel.

During the Āpiti Hono Tātai Hono Ngāpuhi Roadshow, we heard a strong call from whānau for support with whakapapa connection. It was beautiful to see our people engaging and discovering their whānaunga through the activities we set up! 🗣 We hear you, e te iwi, and we’re here to help. We are committed to working alongside whānau to reconnect with their whakapapa. If you have any pātai or want to learn how we can support you, tēnā hono mai.

“Our taitamariki and the team have worked hard, and it’s inspiring to see them so engaged,” says Paula Hohua. Ngāpuhi taitamariki cultivate skills and connection through Maara Kai - Our Maara Kai project has seen incredible progress thanks to the dedication of NISS mentors and taitamariki. Last month we provided an update on our maara kai that Paula, Fred and our māhuru team have been working on. In the last month we have had a lot of growth in all things green and healthy! They’ve built six raised beds, installed water tanks, and planted spring vegetables like peas, beans, and pumpkin. It’s exciting to see the maara come to life.” In addition to the raised beds, a rongoā (traditional medicine) and food forest sanctuary has been established with native and fruiting trees. Digger work has been completed, and irrigation systems are being installed to ensure the plants thrive. Their mahi will not only provide kai but also empower taitamariki to take pride in their contributions, learn new skills, and grow closer to their community. Shout out to our teina!!!!

"Oranga Tamariki is not part of our whakapapa.” Te Matewai Skipworth is one of our amazing registered Mātua Atawhai. Here she shares a short and heartfelt kōrero about her journey to becoming a Mātua Atawhai. At NISS we are proud to have such dedicated mātua atawhai who are proud of the what they do for our whānau. #NISS #matuaatawhai #caregivers

Reflecting on our journey across the motu through the Āpiti Hono Tātai Hono roadshow, we’re grateful for the insights shared by our people. During the roadshow, our NISS team provided updates on the current state of Ngāpuhi tamariki and whānau within the social services sector, highlighting the advocacy and service delivery efforts of Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services. One of the snippets we caught from our recent roadshow was the need and urgency to provide whakapapa-connected care for our mokopuna. Along with that, we heard requests for: 👉🏽 Iwi advocacy support, particularly for tamariki and whānau engaged with Oranga Tamariki. 👉🏽 Expressions of interest to tautoko as Mātua Atawhai. We hear you, e te iwi. Our Mātua Atawhai campaign will launch soon - where you can register your interest in providing care for our mokopuna and ensure they don’t get lost in the agency system.

"Showing them, actually, I'll support you - because that's what they really need." 💙 Megan Hou shares the fulfilment she feels as a Mātua Atawhai. At NISS, we stand alongside our Mātua Atawhai, providing the support and plans they need to care for our mokopuna. Together, we ensure our tamariki are well supported and thrive.

Whitiwhiti kōrero! Our Ngāpuhi Podcast caravan is all about gathering our people's kōrero, whakapapa, and aspirations, providing a space to preserve the precious mātauranga passed down through generations. The podcast caravan debuted at the Auckland stop of the Āpiti Hono Tātai Hono roadshow. Whānau shared their knowledge, stories, and hopes for the future, which are now recorded and ready to be preserved for future generations. We look forward to sharing this whakaaro with you. The caravan represents a bridge between kaumātua, 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. It offers the opportunity to gather untold stories from the wider Ngāpuhi whānau —stories that might otherwise have remained unheard. Stay tuned for updates on podcasts, videos and live sessions!

We need more Mātua Atawhai to ensure our mokopuna know their whakapapa story. "Majority of these kids just haven't had the best start of life." Every day, we work to create a better future for our mokopuna. We want all our mokopuna to be connected to who they are, their whakapapa, and their identity. James and Megan Hou speaking on building bonds as Mātua Atawhai. Full versions will be on our website soon e te iwi!

Today, we share a beloved waiata throughout Ngāpuhi for whānau to learn! As we take a break from the hīkoi and our whānau rest in Porirua before making the journey to Poneke, Paremata, we remember this waiata. This waiata, originally called “Whakarongo Mai,” was written in 1983 by Piripi Cope. He was annoyed that the language of our people was not being taught enough. This song expressed his view that Ngāpuhi whānau should stand up and fight for the right to speak the language of our ancestors. We posted this waiata in 2015, but we wanted to highlight it again as we near the end of our hīkoi. Tēnā waiata mai!

The cumulative harm and resulting trauma that survivors of abuse and/or neglect suffered while in State and faith-based care is immeasurable. Survivors experienced devastating physical, emotional, mental, social, cultural, spiritual, educational and financial effects on every facet of their lives. Today, the government's decision to limit attendance, despite the courage of thousands of survivors and whānau who bravely stepped forward, only adds to the hurt. Out of these courageous individuals, only 180 can be there in person. While this apology is a crucial step, the absence of compensation leaves our survivors and their whānau still waiting for the support they need to move forward. This apology will be broadcast live at 9.45am on the following link: https://bit.ly/3CnvThS Further links to the Whanaketi report and information can be found in our bio.

After years of waiting and speaking out, the Abuse in Care Royal Commission of Inquiry is finally done. This report has been named 'Whanaketia—Through Pain and Trauma, from Darkness to Light.' Tomorrow morning, Christopher Luxon will make a public apology to survivors of abuse in care. This apology is essential, but without compensation, it leaves our survivors and their whānau still waiting for the support they need to move forward. Here are the details for tomorrow's public apology to the survivors of abuse in care! 🗓 The public apology will be broadcast live from 9.45am on the following link: https://bit.ly/3CnvThS To understand more about this and the Whanaketi report visit the following link or the link in our bio. https://bit.ly/4euTx9w

Mātua Atawhai are familiar to us. Most Māori whānau have some experience of having whāngai tamariki who are from our extended whānau or who whakapapa to us. Our CEO, Moana Eruera, speaks on the commitments of Mātua Atawhai. Mātakitaki mai 💙

And that’s a wrap, e te iwi! Our final stop at the Ngāpuhi Roadshow took place in Kirikiriroa last weekend. A massive thank you to all our whānau we’ve connected with along the way – your support, stories, and kōrero have made this journey unforgettable. Mauri ora!

Kaimahi highlight! Codi Clarke is a passionate and dedicated leader within NISS. We are proud to have her on our waka. Earlier this year, Codi spoke at Waitangi. Codi talked about the importance of securing our mokopuna in their culture and how it is integral for these individuals to feel grounded in their identities. “We are the stewards of our legacy,” Read the full article on our website: https://bit.ly/NISSCodiClarke

It’s your final opportunity to win these one-of-a-kind Ngāpuhi branded and hand-painted red bands! Go in the draw by attending our final roadshow in Kirikiriroa on Saturday 2nd of November! Join us in discussing the future of Ngāpuhi and how we can best support you and your whānau. See you there! #Ngāpuhi #NISS #Ngapuhi #apitihono #tataihono #Ngapuhiroadshow @ngapuhi.iwi @tehauoraongapuhi

Final stop: KIRIKIRIROA! We’ve been around the motu and we’re on our way back to Te Taitokerau, but not without stopping in Kirikiriroa! See you Saturday! #Ngāpuhi #NISS #Ngapuhi #apitihono #tataihono #Ngapuhiroadshow @ngapuhi.iwi @tehauoraongapuhi

With almost 900 Ngāpuhi mokopuna in care, we are working hard to reconnect them to their Ngāpuhi whakapapa and for some ensure they are cared for by those they whakapapa to. We understand the importance of tamariki being connected to their whakapapa and the importance identity will play in their growth as they head into their future. We want all tamariki to thrive and have the ability to live to their fullest potential. We are currently looking for Mātua Atawhai, so if you think you might be interested, DM us, and we’ll ensure the right person contacts you. #Ngāpuhi #NISS #Ngapuhi #Ngāpuhi #NISS #Ngapuhi

Weren’t able to make our roadshow stops? Let us know where you would like Ngāpuhi to focus on to help you and your whānau over the next 5 - 10 years. Send us a DM, and we will ensure to capture all your kōrero. Ngā mihi nui #NISS

Throwback Thursday! On 6th September, we were invited to the Turner Centre in Kerikeri to support the theatre play Prima Facie. The play was about a female lawyer who was sexually assaulted. It highlighted issues of consent, the barriers within the legal system, mental health effects and a whole range of related impacts for her. Our CEO Moana and two of our kaimahi, Te Matewai and Nola, went to tautoko and sat on a panel afterwards alongside Police, a family court lawyer, and victim support, where the taitamariki (college students from different schools) were able to ask questions. It was an excellent opportunity to share our knowledge and experience in working with teina and whānau affected by mahi tūkino. If you or someone else has been affected by abuse and are looking for support, reach out, and we will provide support to help.

“We really enjoy being with the rangatahi. We have a great love for them which is probably something they don’t get enough of” We are so luckly to have Mātua Atawhai like Paula and Fred Hohua. They provide care for our rangatahi and connection to Ngāpuhi tikanga. Their aroha and manaakitanga is a gift we are thankful for. Become Mātua Atawhai with us today. PM us and we will send you more information. #NISS #matuaatawhai

We're Hiring! Join Our Team as a Project Manager / Pou Pātaka 🗓 Contract: Full-time, fixed-term role for 12 months He angitūtanga: The Opportunity We’re seeking a skilled, organised, collaborative Project Manager to join our team! In this role, you'll manage strategic and operational projects to deliver transformative outcomes for mokopuna and whānau. 🔗 For more information and to apply, visit: https://bit.ly/3BS7jFG or link in our bio! #NgāpuhiIwiSocialServices #ProjectManager #NISS #NISSJobs

Ngā mihi nui Te Whanganui A Tara! Being able to connect with our Ngāpuhi whānau across Aotearoa has been a long time coming and we are grateful to all those who could make it. See you soon, Kirikiriroa for our final stop! #Ngāpuhi #NISS #Ngapuhi #apitihono #tataihono #Ngapuhiroadshow @Ngapuhi.iwi @tehauoraongapuhi

Nau Mai Haere Mai Whānau. Tomorrow, we will be in Whanganui-A-Tara. Come join us and chat with our kaimahi. See you soon!

“Who am I to judge? I am just there to care for them.“ Snippet from Mātua Atawhai James and Megan Hou interview. Full versions will be on our website soon. Stay tuned whānau. #NISS #matuaatawhai

Whanganui-a-Tara, we are coming for you this Saturday!! Come spend some time with us, connect with your whakapapa, understand how we support our iwi, and tell us what you want to see from your iwi in the next 5 - 10 years. See you there whānau! #NISS #Ngāpuhi #ngapuhi

We are proud to be Ngāpuhi. Did you know that 54.2% of Ngāpuhi have been to their marae in the past 12 months? All this data came from www.tewhata.io. Te Whata is a data platform tailored specifically by iwi for iwi—by us for us. It is for iwi members, technicians, and leaders—designers and data users. We want to be able to tell our own narratives according to our priorities and world views. Te Whata has been designed with this in mind. There is some pretty epic data on our iwi. Check it out at tewhata.io #NISS

Earlier in the week our NISS team had a great opportunity to host and discuss alternatives and solutions to locking up our young people in residential institutions and bootcamps with Green party Co-leader Chloe Swarbrick and our local whanaunga MP Huhana Lyndon. Thank you for coming to visit.

Our team has the privilege to kōrero with Te Matewai Skipworth, who is one of our registered Mātua Atawhai. When reflecting on her approach to caring for tamariki she says: “You view a person as tapu; therefore, you enhance their mana”. We want to ensure our mokopuna are strong in their identity, connected to their whakapapa. If you want to learn more about Mātua Atawhai reach out to us via message or our website and we’ll get back to you ASAP. #NISS #mokopuna #matuaatawhai