From Lorr

Tēnā koutou

I was looking back the other day on work completed in late 2020 and early 2021, when the eight iwi of Te Tauihu first came together to form Te Kotahi o Te Tauihu Trust to continue work started in the pandemic, and ensure our Māori communities were being adequately provided for.

That first strategy set four strategic areas: Whāngai (Feeding our people); Tāwharautia (Shelter and Support); Whiwhi Mahi (Work and Training); and Whai Oranga (Holistic Wellness). Two-and-a-half years later, we have seen growth in our operations hand in hand with the level - and type - of need we are seeing and experiencing in our communities.

As we approach Te Mātahi o te Tau, our board has reaffirmed its commitment to continuing to support all whānau Māori living in Te Tauihu. A refreshed strategy sees us continue to build on our strategic hoe – Whāngai, Whiwhi Mahi, Whai Oranga, which now incorporates housing and shelter, and Hoe Ohotata, which is focused on the Te Tauihu Emergency Management Strategy.

I want to thank all our kaimahi for their grace and enthusiasm (and humour) in accepting new challenges. I'm often told to slow down, but our kaimahi certainly keep up. And, as always, a heartfelt mihi to our eight iwi, all of whom are deeply committed to ensuring no whānau Māori living here in our rohe is left behind.

Lorr

Dr Lorr Eade, Pouwhakahaere Rauemi (Operations Manager) | Te Kotahi o Te Tauihu Charitable Trust