Rangatahi Ora

Address

84c Mill Road, Ōtaki

Get in Touch

[email protected]

027 274 5007

Open Hours

Mon – Thur:  8:00am – 4:00pm

Te Hunga Rangatahi

Te Hunga Rangatahi is a life skills course that helps rangatahi to reach their full potential.  The Te Hunga Rangatahi programme is a free 12-week course for Ōtaki youth aged between 16 – 24yrs. The programme aims to provide a safe, supportive and fun learning environment for our rangatahi who are transitioning into training, employment or education.

Engaging with our rangatahi and really listening to what they need is fundamental to Te Hunga Rangatahi success. We ensure that the voice of rangatahi guides the mahi we do. The content of the programme is tailored to the rangatahi in each intake, which includes but is not limited to:

    Confidence building

    Te Hunga Rangatahi 2025 intake dates are: 

    Feb 11, 2025 – May 1, 2025 
    May 27, 2025 – Aug 14, 2025 
    Sept 9, 2025 – Nov 27, 2025

    This course is 12 weeks, Tuesday to Thursday 9:00am to 3:00pm. 

    Te Haemata

     

    Te Haemata is a chill, safe spot for rangatahi (12-18 years), in Ōtaki to hang out, connect, and grow. It’s a space where you can be yourself, meet new people, and get involved in cool activities. Whether you’re keen to learn new skills, get advice, or just kick back, Te Haemata has your back. This is your space to vibe, try new things, and feel like you belong. Come check it out!

    Youth Space

    Open Hours

    During School Term:

    Mon, Tues, Wed: 3:00pm – 5:00pm
    Thurs: 3:00pm – 7:00pm

    Hours subject to change. Hours during school holidays are different and more frequent so please check our socials for updated times.

    Address

    84c Mill Road, Ōtaki

    Get in Touch

    [email protected]
    027 222 9541

    Manaaki Ao (Youth Mentoring)

    The aim of the Manaaki Ao programme is to connect with rangatahi in a one-to-one setting to guide, support and positively influence them as they navigate life’s challenges.

    Our mentors walk alongside our rangatahi to help build confidence and encourage them to reach their full potential.

    Mentoring can have a powerful and positive influence on the lives of rangatahi as they grow and transition into adulthood.

    For more information or to refer someone to mentoring please email [email protected]

    Kārearea

     What is Kārearea ki Ōtaki?

    Kārearea ki Ōtaki is a rangatahi leadership rōpū made up of young leaders aged 13–18 from each of our local kura.

    Why was it created?

    In November 2023, Te Puna Oranga o Ōtaki brought together this rōpū to help guide the creation of Te Haemata – Ōtaki’s very own youth space. We knew it was important that the space was designed for rangatahi, by rangatahi – to make sure it’s a place that feels right for the youth of today.

    Since then, Kārearea ki Ōtaki have been involved every step of the way. From choosing the name and logo to shaping the events, equipment, and overall vibe – they’ve helped bring Te Haemata to life.

    As part of Kārearea ki Ōtaki, our rangatahi leaders get the chance to:

    • Grow their leadership skills

    • Give back to their community

    • Help plan and run events

    • Support our kaimahi during drop-ins and other youth activities at Te Haemata

    It’s all about creating real opportunities for rangatahi to lead and be heard.

    What does Kārearea mean?

    Kārearea, the Māori name for Falcon was chosen for our leadership group as it symbolises resilience, strength and the ability to rise to challenges.

    Our logo features a Kārearea, symbolising both our journey and our aspirations. The black on the left represents the path we’ve traveled, while the white on the right signifies the bright future that lies ahead, waiting to be shaped. The logo was created by rangatahi of Kārearea ki Ōtaki.

    Want to be part of Kārearea ki Ōtaki?
    Contacting Hinewai via email or text
    [email protected]

    027 780 8081

    Te Whare Tapa Whā

    Our Manaaki Ao programme is a holistic mentoring approach using the Te Whare Tapa Whā model developed by leading Māori health advocate Sir Mason Durie. Te Whare Tapa Whā represents the four walls and foundation of a whare.

    When all these elements of Te Whare Tapawha are in balance, we thrive. When one or more of these elements are out of balance our wellbeing is compromised. We use this model to help us identify our rangatahi strengths, opportunities, wants and needs.