Ko Wai Mātou
We believe in the power of whānau (family) and mahi (action) to create a meaningful change. Our story began with a group of friends, ngā hoa, who shared a passion for uplifting their communities. We saw gaps in the system and realised that by combining our strengths, we could deliver support that truly make a difference for Māori.
We are Kia Mau Hoa Haere, a collection of professionals with diverse expertise in education, community development, health, social services, and career development. Individually we have developed our own programmes, but it's our combined talent that allows us to create a powerful, tailored programme for you, your whānau, or your hāpori (community).
The name Hoa Haere comes from the social work researcher and lecturer Taina Whakaatere Poharu, who denies it as a "valued or critical companion." It's a tem that describes a companion who walks alongside you on your journey in a respectful and meaningful way. This traditional concept, applied in a contemporary way, is at the heart of our practice. It's grounded in kaupapa Māori theory, a framework that places Māori values, processes, and principles at the center of everything we do.
Our journey is your journey. We are here to walk alongside you, supporting and empowering you every step of the way.
Values
Each of our values are anchors to the foundation of Māori culture as actions and behaviours that are founded on these values assist whānau to understand their gifts and attributes that have been passed down through generations that will support them to enact their dreams and aspirations (DnA) in a mana enhancing manner.
Ngā Hoa Haere
Kiri Diamond
Community Psychologist & Mentor
Kiri’s background combines community psychology and life coaching with her passion for Māori wellness and education. She has run a wellness clinic offering rongoā Māori and complementary therapies while deeply engaging in her children’s education. Her dream is to help whānau rediscover and share their unique gifts, fostering connections and empowerment within their communities.
Danielle Squire
Advocate for Youth Empowerment & Equity
Danielle’s personal experience of discrimination as a young parent fuelled her passion for advocating for rangatahi. Despite early challenges, she achieved academic success as a solo parent, earning diplomas and degrees in Business Management, Psychology, and Te Reo Māori. She now works across education, youth justice, and community sectors, championing pathways for young people to realise their potential. Her life and career are rooted in ensuring every rangatahi feels empowered to define their own journey.
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Jay Tihema
Rangatahi Development Leader
Jay, originally from Whanganui, brings over a decade of experience in careers, mentoring, and facilitation. With a Bachelor in Social Services, Jay works tirelessly to provide mana-enhancing development opportunities for rangatahi and their communities. Passionate about helping others recognise their potential, Jay is dedicated to creating innovative pathways that uplift and empower whānau.
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Megan Fitzpatrick
Education Psychologist & Whānau Advocate
Megan is a registered psychologist with extensive experience in education, advocating for mana motuhake and tino rangatiratanga. Living in Tauranga for over 21 years, she has dedicated her career to helping whānau heal and flourish, drawing on the richness of te ao Māori. Megan’s mission is to support communities by empowering whānau voices and enabling transformative change.
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Paula Bielby
Business Innovator & Community Trustee
Paula combines a Bachelor of Commerce with years of governance experience, contributing to various trusts and community initiatives. A passionate lifelong learner and energy practitioner, she finds purpose in supporting her hāpori and being a positive role model for her tamariki. Paula is committed to giving back through her involvement in Kia Mau Charitable Trust.
Taylor Delamere
Tertiary Education Advisor
Taylor has spent his life in Tauranga Moana, where he discovered his passion for supporting others through education. A graduate of the Bachelor of Social Work program with First Class Honours, Taylor is dedicated to helping ākonga Māori achieve success as Māori. His work focuses on fostering confidence and guiding learners to reach their full potential.
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