KO WAI MATAU/ABOUT US
Welcome to Kihikihi Charitable Trust, where we are dedicated to fostering holistic well-being within our community. As a culturally grounded organization, we understand the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and spiritual health, and we are committed to empowering individuals and families on their wellness journey.
At Kihikihi Charitable Trust, we believe in the transformative power of cultural connection. Our programs and services are designed to honour and uplift diverse cultural traditions, while also integrating contemporary insights to address the evolving needs of our community. With a whānau-centric approach, we recognize the importance of family in nurturing well-being and strive to create a supportive environment where every individual feels valued and empowered.
Our team consists of passionate professionals who are deeply rooted in their cultural heritage and dedicated to serving the needs of our community. Together, we work tirelessly to provide culturally resonant services that promote resilience, healing, and flourishing.
Join us at Kihikihi Charitable Trust as we embark on a journey of holistic well-being, where cultural connection, empowerment, and community converge to create a vibrant and thriving future for all.
OUR BOARD MEMBERS
The board members whose backgrounds, are Recreation, Education, Health & Employment.
Chairperson
Sarah Te Pou - Onehi
Sarah’s current focus is working alongside Tāngata whaiora & Whānau experiencing Mental Health and Addictions.
Sarah has an extensive Mental Health and addiction background in Nursing and Health Management. Sarah’s Whānau Lived Experience adds a unique insight into what happens within the Whānau system from a Māori & Pakeha worldview, as Whānau journey through Mental Health and Addiction Services.
Sarah has an extensive Sporting interest in Netball, basketball, and Softball. Sarah has successfully coached regional representative teams and was part of NZ Young Talent identification programs.
Sarah now enjoys watching from the bench and sometimes comes out of retirement to provide coaching advice at local and regional levels.
In closing, Sarah’s dedication extends to serving her Whānau, hapu, Iwi & local whānau community.
Her journey is marked by an unwavering commitment to nurturing and uplifting those around her who are ready to be empowered and committed to self-determination.
Trustee
Mariana Te Pou
Kia ora,
Ko Mariana Te Pou ahau. He uri tēnei nō ngā iwi o Tūhoe, Ngātiwai, Whakatōhea, Tainui me Te Whanau-ā-Apanui.
I have a huge passion in supporting and growing confidence in our rangatahi Māori whether it is in their taha māori, in the science space and or mātauranga. I grew up in Flaxmere in a region known as Ngāti Kahungunu, I also had a few years living in Te Awamutu. My upbringing hugely influenced my decision to attend and study at the University of Otago. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Anatomy, a Diploma for Graduates in Māori Studies, a Postgraduate Certificate in Public Health and in Science Communication and a Masters in Entrepreneurship.
"Poipoia te kākano ki a puawai"
Nā Mariana Te Pou
Trustee
ANTHONY BOYD GILBERT
Anthony is a well-respected Rangatira within his whānau, hapu, and Iwi.
Anthony’s Career path is experienced in National Executive Property Management, with a focus on, maintenance & procurement.
Anthony has a saying “As the Rangatira of his whānau over 3 decades he is constantly being asked "why" and, although he loves the times when he can answer, he especially loves the times when he can't. He is a person whose motto is "learn one new thing every day", which makes every new "why" another adventure, a new journey of discovery - both for him and the whānau members he inspires.