In Ngā Paepae o Rangi, drawing on the analogy of Koro Ruapehu and his eternal flame, Pae Whakakā are the team who walk alongside whānau to ignite the flame within.
They are likened to the hydrothermal systems that live within the house of stone of Paerangi — the unseen energy that surfaces in different forms, from geothermal waters to volcanic gases. In the same way, Pae Whakakā help bring forward the potential that already exists within whānau.
The core purpose of Pae Whakakā is to support whānau to realise their own greatness and bring their ideas, aspirations, and moemoeā to life. Te oranga o te whānau sits at the centre of this mahi, ensuring whānau are supported with opportunities to thrive.
Kaimahi focus on empowering whānau to be the best versions of themselves, nurturing strong, healthy, and flourishing whānau living within the majestic landscape of Ruapehu. Access is made easy, with welcoming spaces and opportunities designed so whānau can participate comfortably and confidently.
Navigators and kaiārahi work alongside whānau through a Whānau Ora approach, supporting them to develop plans that reflect their goals, dreams, and aspirations. This mahi is holistic and collaborative, working closely with other Pae and key services to ensure whānau are well supported.
At its heart, this approach is about restoring confidence in whānau — strengthening belief in their own ability to provide for themselves and their people. Grounded in mātauranga Māori and spaces of self-discovery, Pae Whakakā support whānau to shift mindset and move forward with purpose by:
- Strengthening connection, community, and a sense of village
- Nurturing confidence, belonging, identity, and self-worth
- Motivating positive and practical action
- Fostering an aspirational outlook where whānau look to the future with hope, trust in their abilities, and belief that they deserve good things
Access Pae Whakakā services or kōrero with kaimahi
This is a simple way for any whānau or other services/organisations to connect with Ngāti Rangi and ask for support or highlight needs for an individual or whānau who may benefit from services, programmes, or tautoko we can provide.
Pae Whakakā Kaimahi
Rex Paraku
Pou Whirinaki
rex.paraku@ngatirangi.com
rex.paraku@ngatirangi.com
Shelley Mitchell
Kaihautūu Pae Whakakā
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."
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
Kaihautu Te Whare Ahuru
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.
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.
Ashton Brown
Kaiārahi Whānau Manahou
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 in Raetihi. 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.
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 in Raetihi. 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.
Sophia Wallace
Kaiārahi Whānau (Whānau Ora Navigator)
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."
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."
Frances Lomas-Horomia
Kaihuatu - Whiria Ngā Hua
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.
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.
Neha Kaire
Kaiārahi Whānau (Whānau Ora Navigator)
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.”
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.”
Noah Harto
Data Analyst
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."
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."
TJ Bishop
Kaiārahi Whānau (Whānau Ora Navigator)
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.
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.