Whakawhanaungatanga in Action: Small Groups Making a Big Difference
At Te Hono o Ngā Waka, we believe in the power of small, consistent connections to grow strong communities. Over the past few months, our team has been privileged to support a range of kaupapa-led groups aimed at uplifting our rangatahi and whānau — and we’ve seen firsthand how something as simple as gathering around kai or weaving together can create real impact.
From our Kupenga, Cooking, mental health and life skills sessions to our Online Learning Support options, these groups have become safe, welcoming spaces for learning, growth, and whakawhanaungatanga.
Kupenga and Cooking – More Than Just Skills
Whether it's learning how to prepare a hearty meal or weaving a kupenga with care and patience, our hands-on sessions have offered more than just practical skills. They’ve been about connection. Often, we’ve had three generations sitting side by side — tamariki, mātua, and kaumātua — sharing stories, laughter, and knowledge. These moments of intergenerational exchange are powerful. They affirm identity, strengthen whakapapa ties, and remind us that we are all learners and teachers in different ways.
Cooking together has also been a chance to kōrero about kai sovereignty, budgeting, healthy eating, and keeping traditions alive through our kai. For many of our rangatahi, it’s been their first time in the kitchen learning these skills — and they’ve stepped up with pride.
Supporting Learning, Online and In Person
We also understand that learning looks different for everyone. For those navigating school or trying to re-engage with education, our Online Learning Support options have been there to help. Whether it’s helping with assignments, creating space for tamariki to focus outside of the home, or connecting whānau with digital tools — we’re proud to walk alongside them.
We’ve seen beautiful moments of rangatahi gaining confidence in themselves and their learning journey. Sometimes, all it takes is someone believing in you and showing up week after week.
A Space to Belong
These small groups might seem simple — a shared meal, a quiet learning session, a woven net — but they represent something much bigger: belonging. Our kaupapa is always about creating safe spaces where people feel seen, heard, and supported, no matter their age or stage.
As our whānau continue to show up for each other in these spaces, we’re reminded that healing, growth, and transformation happen through relationships, not just programmes. And for that, we are incredibly grateful.
Ngā mihi nui to everyone who has been part of our groups so far. Your presence, energy and aroha make all the difference. We look forward to continuing this mahi with you all.