Noho Wānanga
Immersive learning grounded in tikanga, identity and creative practice.
Kaupapa Māori · Creative Youth Development
Creativity opens the door.
We work alongside creative, capable rangatahi in Tāmaki Makaurau, creating environments where identity is strengthened and leadership can grow.
Ko wai mātou / Who we are
Rangatahi recognised, supported and free to lead as themselves.
Through creativity-driven experiences, rangatahi build skills and reconnect with learning in ways that work for them. Our spaces are intentional, consistent and grounded in trust.
Creativity is our entry point. Wellbeing is our foundation. Relationships drive long-term growth.
Ngā mahi a mātou
The work we do
Our connected programme creates pathways for engagement, development and leadership.
In-School Programmes
Supporting expression, confidence and leadership in schools.
Manawa Ora
Our flagship theatre production, where rangatahi develop and perform their stories.
Mentoring
Ongoing personal, educational and creative pathway support.
Employment Pathways
Work-readiness, internships and employment opportunities.
Whānau Support
Holistic support for rangatahi, their whānau and communities.
Our model and values
Creative Youth Development, grounded here.
Our approach bridges youth development and arts education, localised through kaupapa Māori values and ways of working.
Mauri TauCalm, grounded, intentional
Kia ManawanuiStay steady, hold the line
Aroha in ActionCare, honesty, accountability
Creative ConfidenceExpress, create, lead
Whakapapa of ConnectionKnow where you come from
To BeYou are enough as you are
Ngā hua ka puta
The fruits that emerge
We see rangatahi strengthening identity, developing creative confidence, reconnecting with learning, building resilience and shaping their own aspirations for the future.
Our people
Skilled, values-driven leadership
Huia O’Sullivan
Executive DirectorHuia O’Sullivan (Te Ātiawa) brings more than two decades of experience in youth development, kaupapa Māori wellbeing and Māori mental health.
Maryann Whyte
Operations ManagerMaryann brings more than 30 years of experience across customer service, account management, project delivery, and health and safety.
Andrew Melville
TreasurerAndrew has served as Treasurer since 1 March 2023, supporting governance and financial stewardship.
Become a supporter
Help rangatahi build a brighter future.
We work with up to 40 rangatahi each year. The basic annual cost of supporting one rangatahi through our creative projects and wraparound support is NZ$5,300.
Enquire about supporting us