The Hon Dr Pita Sharples
Maori Party Co-Leader | MP for Tamaki Makaurau
1 September 2011

Dr. Pita R Sharples, Co-Leader of the Maori Party, was blown away with what he describes as “an excellent example of a successful co-operative community programme” while visiting Te Taiwhenua o Whanganui a Orotu today in Napier.

Te Taiwhenua o Whanganui a Orotu has been running a carpentry programme with three joint partners. The Eastern Institute of Technology provides both on-site and off-site training; Work and Income NZ (WINZ) provides the carpentry tools and a training benefit for course participants; and Whanganui a Orotu, the pastoral care and accommodation.

“I was so inspired to see how the community have come together to support this programme, which is not just about providing training, but also building community spirit and kotahitanga, for example through building maara kai for kaumatua.” said Dr. Sharples

“It’s only been running for two weeks, but already you can feel how enthused and engaged the trainees are, as well as the kaumatua and community around them.

“It is both humbling and impressive that despite the poverty around this community, they have a buzz, and a sense of enthusiasm, and they are working together with EIT and WINZ to make their community shine.” said Dr. Sharples.

“I see this programme as an example of how we can work co-operatively as communities and as government to provide better outcomes for our people.”

Dr. Sharples is in Hawkes Bay today visiting community organisations along with his fellow Maori Party members as part of a roadshow.

ENDS

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