Elders of Waipareira Trust to Man Its Information Kiosk

The opening of Te Whānau O Waipareira’s Wāhi Pātai marks a milestone for the organisation.

From Monday, July 1, Waipareira’s Whānau Centre in west Auckland is not only getting a new face – but it’s a friendly and familiar one – our kaumatua.
The information kiosk on the ground floor will be manned totally by kaumatua Monday-Friday, 9am-3pm.

Te Whānau O Waipareira CEO John Tamihere said the organisation was fortunate to have access to kaumatua who have jumped at the opportunity to become involved with whānau.

“We have been overwhelmed by the response of our kaumatua who are excited about engaging with whānau,” John said.

“And as CEO, I could not have asked for more than that. We as a people call on our kaumatua for advice and support.

“They do and will continue to play a major role in Whānau Waipareira.”

On Friday, the Wāhi Pātai was blessed by Reverend Judy Cooper.

Around 50 people including the 20 who will front the kiosk took part in the ceremony.

Waipareira chair Josie Smith said when whānau come to the centre, they are often with a sick child, or not in the best frame of mind.

“A friendly smile or a nice quiet chat with one of the elders maybe just what they need,” Josie said.

“Plus it’s more than just pointing whānau down the hall to Waipareira services. It’s about engaging with our whānau and I know the kaumatua can’t wait to help.”

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