Toko Nathan (right front), Manukau Region Lead Adviser Māori Partnerships, welcomes visitors ahead of the pōwhiri at Ngāti Tamaoho Trust. Seated in front row (left to right): Morana Diamond, Maryann Moki, and Ali Rei.

It was a cold night in Karaka, but the whare at Ngāti Tamaoho Trust was packed. Around 150 people came through the doors on Monday 21 July for Manukau region’s first Kai & Kōrero recruitment hui of the year.

The pōwhiri set the tone early - welcoming, grounded, and full of energy. This wasn’t just a recruitment event. It was a chance to connect, to kōrero, and to share what the department is really about.

The relationship with Ngāti Tamaoho has been building over the past few years, especially around Community Work. This hui felt like a natural next step..

Inside the whare, people leaned in. They wanted to know more. What does the Department do? Who are the people behind the uniforms? What kind of work is happening in their communities?

Throughout the night, staff from across Ara Poutama Aotearoa shared their stories. Some spoke about the day-to-day realities of working in Community Corrections. Others gave insight into custodial roles, cultural capability, and the values that guide the organisation.

There was a strong presence from both community and custodial teams, including colleagues from Papakura and ARWCF. Their kōrero gave attendees a clearer picture of the work, the people behind it, and the impact it can have.

Leaders like Ali Rei and Maryann Moki helped frame the bigger picture, sharing how different parts of the Department come together, and how the Hōkai Rangi strategy continues to shape the way the department works alongside whānau and communities.

The mix of voices, experiences, and perspectives made the hui feel grounded and real. It wasn’t just a presentation, it was a conversation.

Thanks to Ngāti Tamaoho Trust for hosting with warmth and generosity. Their manākitanga helped set the tone for the evening which made it a huge success!

Hinemoa Brown, Adviser Cultural Capability Northern, speaking to a full house about her role and the importance of cultural capability in Ara Poutama Aotearoa.

 

Cyril Belk, Principal Instructor Catering and Laundry at ARWCF, delivering whaikōrero during the pōwhiri at Ngāti Tamaoho Trust.