helen@ngatirangi.com

Ū ana mai ōku tīpuna ki Aotearoa nō ngā whenua o Kōtimana, o Tiamana, o Airani, o Wīwī anō hoki.

Helen is the Chief Executive of Te Tōtarahoe of Paerangi Trust and Ngā Waihua o Paerangi Trust for Ngāti Rangi. She is responsible for all of the work across the Ngāti Rangi group. Before coming to Ngā Waihua o Paerangi Helen was Chief Executive of the Whānau Ora Commissioning Agency (Te Waipounamu) from 2015- 2022.

From 1999-2015 Helen was Chief of Staff for Dame Tariana Turia. She was National Secretary for the Māori Party from 2004 to 2014; and author of ‘Crossing the Floor: the story of Tariana Turia”.

Helen is on a number of advisory panels in the social sector and is often advocating for and on behalf of Ngāti Rangi uri aspirations in her role as Chief Executive.

Outside of her mahi, the enduring love of her life for Helen is her whānau - her partner, children, her mokopuna, her siblings, her father, her nieces and nephews; the aunties and uncles; kautau katoa. They all provide the sense of purpose for doing what she does. Helen also loves to write, to sing, and to enjoy the promise of a new sunrise; the glow of a radiant sunset. Helen is inspired by the vision, Kia mura ai te ora o Ngāti Rangi ki tua o te 1,000 tau. She wants to serve the "Voices of the people ; to respond to the range of aspirations and priorities shared with us; and to help build the future fit for all our mokopuna to indeed know they are born of the seeds of greatness.

Deana.Wilson@ngatirangi.com

Ngāti Rangi, Tūwharetoa, Ngāti Apa, Ngā Rauru, Te Ātihaunui ā Pāpārangi

Deana has spent thirty years as an educator as a classroom teacher, curriculum advisor, mentor, education publisher and senior advisor in the national office of the Ministry of Education.

Her passion for science, and innate curiosity, lead her to reassess her career to take up study at the University of Canterbury to do a degree in geology. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Geology in 2020. She was appointed to the role as manager in January 2022.

Deana has always enjoyed singing and the visual arts and creates art works in her spare time. Deana lives with her partner who together have raised their four children, two adult daughters, a teenage son, and a vibrant and inquisitive princess.

Her hope is to help the iwi to achieve the aspirations of uri which has been informed through the iwi settlement Rukutia te Mana and the Voices of the People. She is motivated in her role to do this by implementing processes that support intergenerational practice of tikanga, waiata and korero tukuiho through the reconnection to the awa, whenua and maunga of Ngāti Rangi.

Korty.wilson@ngatirangi.com

Ngāti Rangi, Ātihau, Ngāti Whitikaupeka, Ngā Wairiki-Ngāti Apa, Ngā Rauru, Ngāti Tūwharetoa,

Korty’s background in the education field has spanned four decades firstly as parent help, a teacher aide, board of trustee member, teacher training and becoming a teacher head of Māori, teaching principal, education reviewer, and Director of Religious Studies.

Her previous position for the Palmerston North Catholic Diocese was a cultural advisory role which extended to the education and pastoral areas of the Church.

This work has helped prepare Korty for her role as Kaihonohono ā iwi. Whakapono has shaped Korty in all aspects of her life. Whakapapa, waiata, and our tikanga are high on her list of priorities. Korty’s physical health and well-being is sustained by playing squash, tennis and table tennis. Korty enjoys skiing and would like to try her hand at archery.

“My hopes have been to share what I have acquired in her capacity as a member of the iwi.  What motivates Korty in this role is seeing the intergenerational practice of tikanga, waiata and pakiwaitara.   The sharing with the community and visitors to allow them to feel the connectedness and affinity to Ngāti Rangi through our language, our environment, our tikanga, and our culture. “

fred.clark@ngatirangi.com

Te Āti Haunui ā Pāpārangi, Patutokotoko, Ngāti Rangi, Uēnuku, Mōkai Pātea, Ngā Wairiki-Ngāti Apa, Ngāti Waewae, Ngāti Hika

Born and raised in Taihape Fred spent alot of time with his grandmother who instilled the values of the relationship between tāngata and the relations of Te Ao Turoa - the Natural World.

These values, which were enhanced in later years by mentors and teachers, form the foundations of his mahi today. Since returning home in 2015, Fred has been actively working in Te Ao Turoa and Ngatirangitanga, guiding groups across our landscape in accordance with our tikanga and kawa.

He has been privileged to sit on the Ngaāti Rangi Environmental Forum (Ngaā Poutaiao), and Te Pae Toka - a relationship group between Ngāti Rangi and Ruapehu Alpine Lifts. These experiences and more form the skillset Fred brings to his role as Kaihonohono a Rohe, Environmental and Relationship Advisor.

He has a deep passion for volcanoes, water, his whanau, our marae, whakapapa, history, Iwi development, ecology, geology, astonomy and travelling.

joseph.mcleod@ngatirangi.com

Ngāti Rangi, Te Ātihaunui-ā-Pāpārangi

Joseph is experienced at working in outdoor spaces and with heavy machinery, having worked previously at the Tangiwai Sawmill.

He's passionate about helping the awa, whenua and environment to thrive and keen to upskill in order to make an impact in the spaces required for his mahi.

toni-renee@ngatirangi.com

Uenuku, Ngāti Rangi, Te Ātihaunui-ā-Pāparangi

Toni-Renee is from Raetihi . Prior to her position with Ngāti Rangi, she spent eight years as a kaimahi/kaiako at Manu Kōrero Te Kōhanga Reo alongside her babies, where she grew in her Māoritanga.

Toni-Renee supports hapū māmā through her role as Kaiārahi for He Puna Ora. She helps to create a space for māmā or wahine in general to talk, find common ground to share, encourage and uplift each other.

Ngāti Rangi, Ngāti Tui-o-nuku

Felecia was the office administrator for nine years at Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Ngāti Rangi. She has enjoyed being with Ngāti Rangi in the office administrator role.

Felecia has a Careers Academy (NZ) administrator certificate and has completed courses on Xero.

Ū ana mai ōku tīpuna ki Aotearoa nō ngā whenua o Ingarani anō hoki.

Michael is working in the Pae Whakahā team on environmental protection, specifically on resource consents, concessions, the Taiao Management Plan and the proposed Te Ara Mangawhero bike trail.

Michael has a background in biological and environmental science. In previous roles he has been a researcher into smoking cessation, a university and polytechnic lecturer in biology and environmental science, and a policy adviser in the contentious field of genetic modification.

Michael is an environmental and animal activist. He founded the Animal Justice Party of Aotearoa NZ. Michael has stood as a candidate for central government, and for Mayor of Auckland in 2022 on an animal liberation and conservationist platform.

jahrome@ngatirangi.com

Te Atihaunui-a-Paparangi, Uenuku, Ngati Ruaka

Jahrome has come to Ngāti Rangi with a diverse background in the taiao. He gained hands on experience in environmental management with the Department of Conservation, has worked in the Ngāhere, a distribution center, and further expanded his skills in logistics with WPI.

Throughout his career, Jahrome has maintained a deep passion for kai gathering, which reflects his connection to nature and commitment to sustainable practices.

Gathering kai helps him to connect with nature and spirituality, promotes adventure and his love for the outdoors and for his whānau.

"This year, I want to make sure the Mahinga Kai programme really succeeds for our rangatahi and kaumatua. I believe it has so much potential and needs to continue. By connecting our youth with our elders, we can strengthen our cultural ties and promote well-being. I'm determined to play my part in making Mahinga Kai a success and ensuring it has a lasting impact."

sjahrne.haitana-nesbit@ngatirangi.com

Ngati Rangi, Ngati Rongomai, Ngati Uenuku, Ngati Haua, Ngati Maru

Sjahrne grew up in Ruapehu in her early years and moved away to Te Papaioea as a teenager where she finished her education. Regardless of living in the city she was always a small town country girl at heart. Sjahrne is a qualified and registered teacher which has enabled her to diversify her skills. Sjahrne has recently relocated back to Ruapehu with her family.

Sjahrne has the responsibility of fulfilling various administrative tasks for Pae whakahā, she is also apart of the Herbarium team, Nga Pou Taiao and He Piki Amokura nō te wharetoka o Paerangi (Ngati Rangi Education Strategy).

Sjahrne likes to spend her down time connecting with her whanau and friends, relaxing, lending a helping hand, learning and spending time immersed in the taiao.

"To have the privilege to return back to your papakainga and serve your community and be apart of a team of kaitiaki who help to protect our whanau, ngahere, maunga and awa has always been the dream".

Sjahrne knows she is where she is destined to be.

maree@ngatirangi.com

Iwi/ Ngā Rauru - Hapu/ Rangitawhi

Iwi/Ngāti Maniapoto - Hapu/ Ngāti Peehi

Maree has spent over 13 years working in the Whānau Ora space and managing teams of kaiarahi.

Throughout her time, she has developed and delivered pathway training programmes to enhance skills, delivered weekly parenting programmes to whānau, spearheaded various successful community events and signficantly contributed to organisations' community engagement and impact.

"My goal is to lead by embodying our core values of Manaakitanga, whanaungatanga and Kaitiakitanga. I strive to create a team environment that reflects these values, fostering collaboration, integration, empowerment, and a shared commitment to Ngāti Rangi's success. My motivation is driven by a desire to see my team thrive, contributing meaningfully to the well-being and prosperity of our whānau, hapu and iwi through innovative and impactful initiatives. This includes upholding our cultural heritage and strengthening our community ties."

Maree's heart belongs to her Whānau. Savoring moments with her husband, tamariki and many mokopuna brings her immense joy. Her kuri - Patch & Nala - provide unwavering companionship and keep her centered amidst the roles of wife, Māmā and Nan.

neha@ngatirangi.com

Ngāti Rangi, Ngāpuhi, Te Ātihaunui ā Pāpārangi, Ngāti Whitikaupeka, Ngā Wairiki-Ngāti Apa, Ngā Rauru, Ngāti Tūwharetoa

Neha is responsible for working alongside whānau in our community to help achieve their goals. He is a valued kaiārahi whanau at Nga Waihua o Paerangi.

He has working experience in a number of different services ranging from community mental health to social housing and Whānau Ora. Neha can be seen throughout the rohe helping our kaumatua and many whānau in many different ways.

Music is a passion for Neha, he has an interest in art and whānau is extremely important to him, hand in hand with manaakitanga. Neha has a strong motivation and is determined to help set up an ongoing kaupapa that will benefit our people now and the future because: “I want to see our people vibrantly exist within our community for a thousand years.”

tanya@ngatirangi.com

Ngāti Rangi, Ngāpuhi

Tanya is the lead data analyst at Ngāti Rangi. Her primary goal is to leverage data-driven insights to make a positive impact on the well-being of our whānau.

Her motivation lies in utilising data to create meaningful solutions that address the specific needs and aspirations of our community members. Tanya aims to play a pivotal role in identifying trends, patterns, and opportunities through data analysis, contributing to the overall empowerment of our whānau.

By harnessing the power of data, Tanya aspires to support the wider organisation in the mission to design effective strategies that enable our whānau to thrive and achieve their dreams, fostering a stronger and more resilient community for generations to come.

Tanya is a dedicated professional. She brings with her a wealth of experience in the Whānau Ora field, having worked in this domain for several years. Previously, she was employed with Te Tihi o Ruahine in Palmerston North, where she honed her skills and knowledge in planning, implementation, and empowering our whānau in need.

Tanya finds absolute joy in supporting the sporting aspirations of her children and cherishing moments with family and friends. She loves travelling to new places to broaden her horizons and deepen her appreciation for diverse cultures. Nature, especially the nghāhere and the great outdoors, brings her solace. Witnessing captivating sunsets and sunrises fills her with immense joy and awe. Natures embrace is a vital source of happiness and contentment in her life.

Frances.Lomas-Horomia@ngatirangi.com

Raised as a tamaiti whāngai in the paradise of Waimamaku Hokianga Frances was embedded in the teachings of her kaumātua. There she learned many life skills through tiaki taiao, rāranga, kai gathering, kapahaka and much more. These experiences shape her life as a mother, wife and guide her service for people.

She have become a Jack of all trades, mastering various crafts that have been shared with her throughout the years. Growing up in different communities taught Frances to value diversity and be open-minded. As a tangata marae, she understands the importance of contributing and supporting her community. Helping others is central to her identity and she is humbled to have inherited this worldview and gift from the village that nurtured her.

Frances is passionate in various forms of mahi toi; visual art, tukutuku, korowai, mahi raranga. She loves anything that builds up knowledge within whānau. She also loves to cook and share with others. Her whānau means everything to her and her tamariki have been educated with these skills from birth; to appreciate the value of community, service, and humility.

As the Kaihautū – Whiria ngā hua, her goal is to create a space where whānau can feel empowered to turn their dreams into reality. She is committed to utilizing her skills and knowledge to support the whānau by any means necessary. Frances is particularly interested in deepening her understanding of this region to enhance the connection of whānau with Ngāti Rangi.

sophia.wallace@ngatirangi.com

Ko Te Atihaunui-a-paparangi, Ngati Rangi me Ngati Tuwharetoa nga iwi.

A Māmā of three children living in Ohakune, Sophia is a qualified baker, has studied psychology and also worked as a support teacher aide, assisting unique and diverse Tamariki.

Her background in psychology has allowed her to explore and comprehend various aspects of behavior, trauma, and healing, drawing from both personal and others' experiences.

Sophia absolutely loves being a mum and shares her passion for the outdoors with her whānau, who love seeing new trails to hike and explore. Dedicated to their health and fitness, her beautiful whānau prioritises proper nutrition, rest, and overall well-being. They serve as her daily inspiration to continue growing and evolving.

Sophia aspires to be a beacon of strength for others, inspiring them to discover their own courage.

"Our community holds the key to thriving and flourishing; sometimes all it takes is a supportive friend to help unlock it."

TJ.Bishop@ngatirangi.com

Ngāpuhi, Cook Island

TJ is responsible for working alongside whānau in our community to help achieve their goals. He is a valued kaiārahi whanau / Whānau Ora Navigator at Nga Waihua o Paerangi.

TJ has a lot of life experience which enables him to reach out to various individuals and whānau that the system says are usually hard to reach. TJ thoroughly enjoys helping people to maximize their full potential and has many interests including fishing, racing cars and spending valuable time with whanau.

TJ hopes to achieve ways to uplift our community and stop generational trauma so that our people and families can thrive to make a future they choose.

His motivation inside his role is to ignite the potential in our whānau so they can make positive changes and never have to live through the experiences that he has lived .

ashton.brown@ngatirangi.com

Ngāti Rārua, Te Ati Awa ki te Waka-a-Maui, Ngati Kuia, Ngai Tahu, Te Aupouri, Te Rarawa

Ashton is a mother of three children and lives with her partner and 2 dogs in Taihape. Her work experience has been in community services with majority of her work history with the Ministry of Social Development.

Ashton worked for as a Kaiwhakahaere for Kōhanga Reo before moving to Taihape. She then worked for Mōkai Patea Services as a Whānau Ora Iwi Navigator from 2017 - 2019 before becoming a full time home maker/ mum.

She aspires to support and empower whānau to live their best life. Also passionate about supporting whānau through te po into te ao marama in order to unlock their highest potential. She believes everyone is deserving and worthy of living a life free from the shackles of violation and trauma.

Ashton hopes to contribute creativity, belief in the potential of others and mana-enhancing kōrero.

shelley.mitchell@ngatirangi.com

Ngāti Porou - Putaanga, Te Aitanga a Mahaki - Nga Ariki Kai utahi āā

Shelley has a diverse background in leadership, facilitation, and coordination, particularly with Te Kurahuna, where she led and managed the Mahi a Atua programmes, including Rangi Parauri and Rangimatauru.

Additionally, she has experience working in Acute Mental Health services as a Kaiaromatawai with the Crisis Team. She has taught Māori Performing Arts under the auspices of Te Wānanga o Aotearoa, contributing to the preservation and promotion of indigenous cultural practices.

Shelley finds great joy in activities that connect her to te Taiao, whether it's hunting, fishing, or engaging in sport. There's a deep sense of fulfillment in being part of a collective, especially when working together to bring large projects or events to life—infusing them with creativity and innovation. The process of collaboration, combined with her shared vision, inspires her to contribute her energy and ideas to create something truly meaningful.

"My aspiration is to clear away the ongaonga (obstacles) that hinder progress, creating a pathway for Ngāi Māori to fully realise their potential. I am committed to removing barriers, fostering growth, and empowering our people to thrive in all aspects of life, ensuring that future generations can flourish with strength and purpose."

rua.eagle@ngatirangi.com

Ngaāti Ūenuku, Ngāti Rangi, Naāti Hauiti ki Rata, Kai Tahu, Ngāti Tuwharetoa, Norfolk Island.

Rua has 15 years' experience working in social, health and housing services. She worked in Kaupapa Maāori, Iwi and non-government organisations as a Toiora Whānau Practitioner, developing into senior leadership.

Her core mahi was based in Pōneke, where she was part of the team navigating Government systems to support the whānau they served in homelessness.

Rua was not raised knowing her whakapapa or cultural identity. She was an adult when she entered education at Te Wānanga o Raukawa. This is where she gained a better understanding of her cultural identity and whakapapa connections. Since studying, Rua has been developing in Toi, Rongoa, and pursuing traditional, cultural, creative activities and enjoys being in the taiao.

Rua has returned to the whenua where her kuia and koro are from. Sadly, she never met her koro; however, she met her kuia a couple of years before she passed.

noah.harto@ngatirangi.com

Ngati Uenuku (hapu) Ngati Uenuku, Ngati Rangi, Ngati Tuwharetoa (iwi)

Noah was born in Raetihi and raised around the motu. After completing college, she joined Ngāti Rangi on an internship, where she had the privilege of working with rangatahi. This experience led to a valuable opportunity to pursue a Māori Data Analysis Apprenticeship with Te Kahui Raraunga.

Now, she has brought her learnings and experiences back home to Ngāti Rangi, eager to support our whānau with data-driven insights that create meaningful, sustainable change for the community. Noah is excited to contribute to our collective goals and continue learning as she grows in this role and explore how data can be leveraged to solve real-world challenges. She enjoys learning new analytical techniques and tools, and is always keen to stay updated on industry trends.

"My motivation is to contribute to Ngāti Rangi by using data to drive solutions that are aligned with the needs and aspirations of our whānau. I’m excited to help identify patterns and trends that will lead to positive outcomes, empowering our community. Through my role, I aim to support the development of effective strategies that allow our whānau to thrive, building a more resilient future. My goal is to work collaboratively with the team and ensure that data is used to its fullest potential, ultimately contributing to the long-term success and well-being of Ngāti Rangi."

secretary@ngatirangi.com

Ngāti Ruanui, Ngāti Tūwharetoa

Aisha is the Board Secretary of the Ngāti Rangi Group. She provides key support services to the boards and support across the organisation to manaaki our manuhiri.

After working within kōhanga reo for sixteen years, Aisha found herself ready for the next chapter, whatever that was and however that looked. Aisha became a part time reliever at Nancy Winters Daycare Centre and worked in the hospitality industry at Coach Cafē where she is still part- time.

Aisha started in her current position with Ngāti Rangi in March 2020, two weeks before lockdown.

lauren.wikohika@ngatirangi.com

Ngāti Rangi, Te Ātihaunui-ā-Pāpārangi, Ngāi Tuhoe - Ngāti Manawa

Lauren is the contracts manager and responsible for monitoring the organisations contract deliverables and outcomes have been met.

Lauren has been brought up predominantly in Whanganui, and has lived in Raetihi for 24 years. She is married to Peter with five children; Sayge, Tui, Lee, Putiputi and Ihaka.

Lauren has recently completed twenty years of service at WPI Tangiwai Sawmill more recently as the Logistics Co-ordinator. Lauren loves chasing her kids around in their sporting ventures, including squash, netball, rugby.

Lauren had been on the lookout for a more fulfilling role within our community, within our iwi, and so the opportunity came knocking. She is hoping her contribution to the kaupapa put in front of her here at Ngati Rangi is great and she feels incredibly blessed to be welcomed into this whānau.

jude.sinai@ngatirangi.com

Te Arawa/ Ngati Whakaue, Ngati Pikiao

Jude was employed by WPI pulpmill for 19 years where he also spent time as the First Union Executive and Delegate to Central Wood Industry.

He has had the privilege of serving on various Governance boards in the Ruapehu region including; Ngati Rangi Kura Kaupapa Board of Trustees, Kahui Maunga Snow Academy, and the oversight team at Waimarino Baptist Church.

He is raising four Tamariki under Ruapehu and is passionate about hunting, diving, golf and barbecuing the finest of meats! If there is anything that involves sourcing Kai from the paddock to plate, you can count on Jude to be there!

Jude hopes to positively effect change in our Ruapehu community through showing love, and doing the mahi alongside our whānau.

"Ko te aroha ki te Atua me ana mea hanga katoa."

Ayla.Fryer@ngatirangi.com

Ngāti Kuia

Ayla's background is in customer service and operational support. She was brought to Ohakune through working at Tūroa ski field on Koro Ruapehu in the 2019 winter season, when she fell in love with the community and wanted to stay permanently.

Working in the ski industry has taken her all around the world, France, Japan and Canada just to name a few. Ayla loves to get out in nature, from skiing, to surfing and all the other activities in between.

Ayla was inspired from her first interaction with Ngāti Rangi through the annual powhiri, welcoming the seasonal workers, sharing their story and educating on the significance of the rohe.

"I hope in my role I am able to support Ngā Waihua o Paerangi and all the wonderful things they do for Uri, the community and the whenua."

kirsten.brown@ngatirangi.com

Ngāti Porou, Ngāti Manawa.

Kirsten was born and raised in Taihape. She completed a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting and Commercial Law in 2022. Whilst finishing her studies, she took on the role as Finance Manager at Te Kurahuna Ltd, where she was able to apply her academic knowledge in a practical setting.

Kirsten is always up to something, she enjoys being out and about from playing Netball to spending time on the farm.

After working from home for the past three years, Kirsten was eager to embrace a new challenge that would get her out and about, engaging more deeply within her local area.

At Ngāti Rangi, she finds inspiration in being part of a whānau dedicated to creating better outcomes for their people, and fostering growth within the community.

sapphire.mapp@ngatirangi.com

Ngāti Porou ki Hauraki

I ahu mai ahau i Kohutara te tomokanga, ki nga kohu apopo o Tokatea, ki nga wai rere o Harataunga. Ko Rakairoa toku wharenui, ko Ngaropi toku wharekai.

Sapphire grew up on Lochinver Station for most her life, until she moved to Ohakune in 2016. She graduated from Ruapehu College in 2020 and went on to work full time in hospitality, leading her to relocate to Picton for mahi. After moving home in 2023, she decided it was time to find mahi that aligned with her purpose and values and to pursue a career. Administration is her main role at Ngā Waihua o Paerangi, and she is also a Health and Safety rep for team Pae Whakato. She has experience handling finances and completed a data apprenticeship programme with Auraki.

"My future aspirations are to continue growing my data analysing knowledge and upskill myself in accounting software. These are both skills I plan to use to support the aspirations and programmes within Ngā Waihua o Paerangi."

Outside of mahi, you can find Sapphire exploring the Ngāhere, awa or taiao - she loves to keep active in any outdoor environment. Music has also always been a passion of Sapphire's. Writing, recording and producing her own songs is a process she finds great reward and enjoyment in.

wendy-lee.tapa@ngatirangi.com

Te Ātihaunui-ā-Pāpārangi; Ngāti Rangi, Ngāti wai

Wendy-Lee leads the hauoratanga team for Ngā Waihua o Paerangi. Wendy-Lee's journey started in health fifteen years ago, firstly in an administration role with health promotion before moving to Western Australia for three years.   

Wendy-Lee returned to Aotearoa in 2013 to look after her mother who died that year from a brain tumour.  It was at this point that Wendy-Lee took a much closer interest in health. 

 Wendy-Lee is very passionate about helping whānau navigate the health system and promoting wellness. Wendy-Lee lives for her mokopuna and whanau.   Other interests are kapa haka and wearable art shows, and the outdoors.

Wendy-Lees aspirations for our people are that we are better educated in health prevention, whether that is from a holistic or western view.   The better we take care of ourselves and others, the longer we are going to be around for future generations.

tina.wallace@ngatirangi.com

Ngāti Rangi Ki Manganui o Te Ao, Uenuku

Born and bred in the Waimarino Tina has been a nurse for 30+ years. She trained as an enrolled nurse in 1985 at Taumarunui Hospital and worked at Waimarino Hospital, Dr Perera's surgery and has been with Ngati Rangi Community Health since June 1998. Tina became a registered nurse in 2000. She has worked in a variety of roles including Whānau ora community health worker, Whānau Ora nurse and now Tamariki Ora nurse.

Tina is very involved in the Uenuku Treaty Settlement process. She loves watching sports especially if whānau are participating. She loves gardening, walks around the whenua with her animals. Whānau/Whakapapa research and supporting Papakainga aspirations is her passion.

katherine.herewini@ngatirangi.com

Ngāti Uenuku

Katherine has been employed as the Kaihāpai Tari since 2018, and was also appointed as the Tamariki Ora Kaiawhina in 2021.

She is originally from Taranaki, born in New Plymouth and lives in Raetihi with her husband and four children. She loves being with her whanau, who are all very adventurous and love getting outdoors; including watching her tamariki play sports, spending days on the lake and bush walks or hitting the bike trials.

Katherine is passionate about working for our community and helping whānau out where she can. She hopes to continue providing the best administration support she can, not only to just team but the wider Ngāti Rangi group.

Katherine also finds her Tamariki Ora Kaiawhina role really rewarding and enjoys sharing knowledge with māmā - particularly first time Mama who are finding their way with their new pēpi. She hopes to continue supporting māmā the best way she know how, and encouraging them to keep believing in themselves and striving towards their own goals and aspirations for their whānau.

sylvia.dickson@ngatirangi.com

Ngāti Rangi, Ngāti Uenuku, Te Ātihaunui-ā-Pāpārangi, Ngāti Maru (Taranaki) Ngāti Tuwharetoa.

Sylvia was born and raised in Raetihi, and resides in Eketahuna. After spending many years in the hospitality industry, she realised it was time for a new direction and in 2021, returned home to join Ngati Rangi and contribute to her community.

Alongside her passion for community work, Sylvia holds a Diploma in Whānau Ora, which has equipped her with the knowledge and skills to support families and promote their well-being.

She deeply value the connections within our community and is dedicated to making a positive impact through her mahi.

Sylvia aspires to establish a solid foundation within our community that prioritises the health and well-being of our kaumatua. By creating a holistic framework of support, she aims to ensure that kaumatua have access to vital resources, culturally relevant wellness programs, and opportunities for social engagement.

"What motivates me is our people and the profound need I see in the community. I understand the challenges many face, and I feel a deep commitment to helping them navigate their journeys with care and understanding."

virginia.trow@ngatirangi.com

Ngāti Rangi, Te Ātihaunui ā Pāpārangi, Ngāti Whitikaupeka, Ngāti Tūwharetoa

Virginia (Ginge) is a community connector responsible for working with whānau in identifying health and social needs. She is a strong advocate for whānau self determination.

Virginia was born in Raetihi; has four wonderful sons and ten beautiful mokopuna living throughout Aotearoa. Having moved home from Rotorua, previously Virginia was working for Whare Aroha rest-home in the dementia wing for six years, having worked in this industry for nine years.

Virginia is practically minded and has experience in gardens and also farming. Virginia loves being with whānau and attending sporting events namely squash, netball and watching her sons play rugby.

What Virginia hopes to achieve is to build relationships within the community helping people to build on their everyday life skills and achieve their own personal goals, to encourage them to be whatever they want to be.

As a kaimahi the goal is to help our whanau successfully achieve this, passing on strong foundations for the mokopuna and generations to come. Virginia is highly motivated to learn more within her role, while using the knowledge she has gained through the Tipu Ora tohu to build on her knowledge around ora.

darnella.hawira@ngatirangi.com

Uenuku, Maniapoto, Ngai Pare

Darnella commenced mahi with Ngāti Rangi Community Healtn Inc on 9 June 2003, based at the Waimarino Health Centre, Raetihi. She had previously worked for Te Oranganui Iwi Health Authority as a Whānau Ora Practitioner. Darnella has a National Certificate in Tamariki Ora Well Child Services. In November 2021 Darnella was employed by Ngā Waihua o Paerangi Trust.

"I love doing things as a whānau, wherever that may lead, out doors or indoors".

heelena.kaire@ngatirangi.com

Ngāti Rangi, Ngāpuhi

Heleena was raised in Ohakune and attended Manu Korero Te Kohanga Reo and Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Ngāti Rangi. Heleena then moved to Auckland and attended Marcellin College from year 8-13.

In 2021 Heleena decided to move home to be closer to whānau and took an opportunity to join Ngāti Rangi.

Heleena enjoys being out and about, experiencing new things. Heleena loves exploring different styles and trends. Heleena hopes to create more opportunities for rangatahi.

rebecca.collett@ngatirangi.com

Te Ati hau nui aa paparangi, Ngāti Uenuku, Ngāti Rangi,

Rebecca has extensive experience in care and protection, having worked with Oranga Tamariki and Hinengakau Maatua Whāngai Iwi Social Services. She has contributed significantly to youth justice, working with rangatahi, and has facilitated domestic violence programs.

Rebecca is passionate about helping people become the best they can be and is committed to empowering individuals to navigate life's challenges with the right tools. Her work is deeply rooted in the values of family, connection, and communication, and she is particularly interested in the emotional and psychological impacts of social constructs on communities.

Family is of utmost importance to Rebecca, and she believes in the power of strong connections and effective communication to foster resilience and well-being within communities.

aperahama.moses@ngatirangi.com

Ngae Tuhoe / Ngati Tuwharetoa

Aperahama spent nearly a decade in civil construction, gaining groundwork experience from roading, to agriculture and residential foundations. He previously spent time in farm fencing, forestry skid work, meat processing and pest control.

Aperahama has welcomed the opportunity to transition to iwi based mahi and work in a space that supports whānau and hapori.

He is passionate about sharing his knowledge with anyone who is learning to learn and finds watching them progress and ultimately succeed incredibly rewarding.

Outside of mahi, Aperahama enjoys spending time with his whānau hunting, fishing, diving creating lasting memories.

te.hiiringa@ngatirangi.com

Ngāti Rangi, Te Ātihaunui ā Pāpārangi, Ngāpuhi Te Māhurehure

Te Hiiringa was born in Whanganui and raised around the motu (Ohakune, Tamaki Makaurau and now currently residing in Raetihi)!  Te Hiiringa did most of his schooling at Manurewa High School.

Te Hiiringa has learnt trades such as construction, engineering and eventually scaffolding through the gateway programme that Manurewa High School had offered.  He completed five years in scaffolding and feels privileged to now be home, walking the whenua he belongs to, protecting the taiao as a part of the Pae whakahaumaru team.

Recently Te Hiiringa has thought more about his hauora, being in mahi that is at times physically demanding. Te Hiiringa has been investing in hauora including training with brazilian jiujitsu which is a martial art he really enjoys doing. They train six times a week at his cousins shed and at times there could be at least 14 attending.

john.richards@ngatirangi.com

Ngāti Rangi, Te Ātihaunui ā Pāpārāngi

Johnny is part of the Manaaki Taiao team and brings valuable skills and knowledge of bush navigation to the role.

Born and raised in Raetihi, Johnny moved to Auckland in 2019 and worked at local food bank and Gilmours, he worked close hand with vulnerable families and gained skills in importing and exporting of goods.

In 2021, when Ruapehu WorX had employment opportunities available John decided to give it a go relocate back home to Raetihi and has been working with Ruapehu WorX ever since. He has completed pest control level 3, gained qualification in grow safe handling agrichemicals chainsaw handling and quad training. Johnny’s motivation in the Pae Whakahaumaru team is the legacy left by his koro and pāpā.

Johnny is passionate about the Ngahere and the tight bond the brothers have created is the spark that ignites him to mahi everyday. Johnny is a man of few words but as the saying goes work in silence let success be your noise.

dan.struder@ngatirangi.com

Ū ana mai ōku tīpuna ki Aotearoa nō te whenua o Tiamana.

Dan migrated from Germany to Aotearoa in 1990 when he was 7. Dan attended high school in Auckland then carried on into mechanics for a couple of years. He completed his first season on Ruapehu in 2002, a total of 16 seasons on Koro Ruapehu.

In 2018 Dan finally settled full time here in Ohakune. He fell in love with the great outdoors the rōhe and community here. Dan loves working within the Pae Whakahaumaru team, within Ngā Waihua o Paerangi, its an rewarding role that not only fulfills him but also gives back to the wonderful rōhe and community that he belongs to.

coleman.albert@ngatirangi.com

Ngāti Rangi

Coleman was born and raised in Karioi, he attended Ruapehu college and has worked in WPI sawmill for many years. He has obtained a vast range of skills in the timber industry and a skilled machine and chainsaw operator.

Coleman is an active kaimahi who is connected to many Ngāti Rāngi marae across our rōhe. Also known as Uncle Colzy or Colzy he isnt afraid of hard māhi and has a strong work ethic and will get things done. He resides in Karioi with his whānau

Coleman took the leap and applied for a role withing Ruapehu WorX, his vibrant and up-going spirit captured the interview panel and knew he would fit into the team smartly.

Coleman wants to contribute to the well being of pāpātuānuku and learn more in depth about Rongoā Maori.