PĀNUI
NEWS
HWT Kaimahi visit to Rēkohu (Chatham Islands).
19/ / 02 / 2026
There’s something special about the journey to Rēkohu. It’s not just the distance from the mainland, it’s the intention behind the trip. In early February, our He Waka Tapu kaimahi once again travelled to the Chatham Islands, strengthening relationships, supporting whānau, and walking alongside the community in ways that continue to grow with each visit.
There’s something special about the journey to Rēkohu. It’s not just the distance from the mainland; it’s the intention behind the trip. In early February, our He Waka Tapu kaimahi once again travelled to the Chatham Islands, strengthening relationships, supporting whānau, and walking alongside the community in ways that continue to grow with each visit.
On Monday 9 February, the team travelled via Wellington, arriving ready for a full programme of court support, one-on-ones, kura sessions and evening wānanga.
Tuesday began at the Chatham Islands District Court, with our kaimahi meeting defendants ahead of proceedings. Two Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) assessments were ordered & AOD interviews were also conducted on the ground, this is a further commitment to service our rēkohu whānau by meeting them where they’re at.
That afternoon, the focus shifted to Te One Kura Kaupapa, where our Kaimahi facilitated a session centred on whanaungatanga, emotional regulation, and understanding the “fight, flight, freeze” response. Tamariki engaged openly and energetically, taking part in activities designed to strengthen connection and build awareness. These small but powerful follow-through moments reflect the strength of whānau engagement.
"Rēkohu may be geographically distant, but the connections formed there continue to grow stronger with every journey."
Tuesday’s Manaaki group for tāne ran longer than planned as participants opened up about island life and personal experiences. The extended kōrero created a rich, supportive space that highlighted the power of simply listening and holding space.
Wednesday was full and productive, beginning with individual sessions and admin before moving into a Te Whare Tapa Whā workshop using the Manu Aute concept. Whānau participated actively, asking thoughtful questions and continuing discussions past the scheduled time.
At the same time, we facilitated a whanaungatanga group for tāne, followed by extra one on one support for those wanting private kōrero. The evening’s Tāne Longevity Workshop also drew strong participation, adding further depth to the week’s collective mahi.
Thursday the team engaged with Ha o Te Ora O Wharekauri kaimahi and local whānau, while we also supported a kaimahi in the newly created Kaitūwhana role. The exchange of insights and resources was well received and further strengthened the island’s support networks.
The visit wrapped up with moments of lightness, joining whaiora in line dancing, sharing laughs, and embracing a bit of “not-so-good coordination.” These moments matter too. They build trust in ways that professional settings sometimes can’t.
Across the week, feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Whānau expressed gratitude for the workshops and support. Court administration, probation officers and lawyers acknowledged the value of our presence.
That reputation is not built in a single trip. It’s built through consistency. Each visit strengthens the foundations laid before, ensuring that when court convenes again on Tuesday 12 May, our waka will once again arrive grounded in relationship and ready to serve.
