On Monday, 2 February 2026, Tai Timu Tai Pari, in partnership with Oranga Tamariki – Ministry for Children, proudly launched Tama-Āriki, a new Māori-designed Enabling Communities prototype.

Tama-Āriki reflects our commitment to a holistic, whānau-centred and locally grounded approach that empowers whānau to confidently navigate care and support services for their mokopuna across the Whangārei–Te Kaipara region. The Safety and Wellbeing of Tamariki is paramount, and Tama-Āriki sets a clear pathway and wero (challenge) for us to uphold this for all children.

Our aim is to engage with whānau at the earliest possible opportunity, preventing issues from escalating and ensuring that if they do enter the system, they leave it better off than when they began.

There are nine prototypes around the country each selected to stand up initiatives in their community. These prototypes will inform the system shifts necessary to improve outcomes for tamariki and whānau. They are situated in Te Taitokerau, Midlands, the Central and Southern regions.

“This investment enables a community-led, early intervention model that collectivises Māori and community providers across Whangarei and Te Kaipara to deliver better outcomes for tamariki while reducing pressure on statutory services,” says CEO William Kaipo

We were privileged to have the Hon Minister Karen Chhour and her Team from Oranga Tamariki in attendance.

Tai Timu Tai Pari would like to thank all of those who came to support the Kaupapa.