Taku Wairua Tupu Programme
The Taku Wairua Tupu Programme is a life-changing journey for rangatahi aged up to 18 who are not currently in school, training, or employment.
Through a fully funded personal development experience, participants explore our four pillars — Belonging, Self Discovery, Goal Setting, and Citizenship - and are supported to build confidence, develop life skills, and work towards a more positive future.
What does it involve?
Our programme combines hands-on experiences, practical skills, and personal reflection. Activities include:
Taku Wairua Pillars: Belonging, Self Discovery, Goal Setting, Citizenship
Courageous excursions: e.g. ziplining, outdoor challenges
Life skills workshops: cooking, nutrition, CV writing, First Aid
Guest speakers: athletes, business owners, community leaders
Cultural exploration: pepeha, whakapapa, and visits to places of significance
Physical wellbeing: regular workouts with local gyms
Driving & safety: gaining a driver’s licence and first aid certification
Work experience: building towards full-time employment
Community service: giving back through volunteering and local mahi
The Four Pillars
Belonging
This pou helps you look back to move forward. You’ll explore your whakapapa and pepeha, connect with your whenua and whānau, and discover the deep value of knowing your roots. We create opportunities for you to reflect, share, and stand tall in your identity - through field trips, guest speakers, and wānanga that reconnect you to the people and places that have shaped you.
Self Discovery
Once you know where you come from, it's time to focus on who you are now. In this pou, you'll reflect on your values, strengths, weaknesses, and proudest moments. Through workshops, kōrero, and challenges, you'll build self-awareness, courage, and a growth mindset. The kind of mindset that helps you bounce back, believe in yourself, and take on whatever life throws at you. We’re here to help you realise you’ve got more in you than you ever thought.
Goal Setting
You’ve looked at your past and learned about yourself - now it’s time to plan for your future. This pou is all about turning dreams into action. You’ll learn how to set real, achievable goals and take the steps needed to move towards them. Whether it’s getting your licence, finding work, or building healthier habits, we’ll back you to take control of your journey and build momentum that lasts beyond the programme.
Citizenship
Once you’ve built yourself up, it’s time to give back. This pou is about recognising your value in the wider community - and seeing how small actions can create a big impact. You’ll get stuck into meaningful volunteering, develop a sense of responsibility, and experience the feeling that comes from being of service to others. Because when we uplift others, we uplift ourselves too.
Click Here to Download our sample Tupu workbook
Meet The Team
Raynard - Tupu Manager
Waikato-Tainui, Te Āti Haunui-a-Pāpārangi – Ngāti Mahuta, Ngāti Uenuku
I'm from Ngaruawahia, and I enjoy playing and watching sports, as well as spending time with friends and family. My passion is working alongside youth and seeing their growth and development. I'm a bit of a jokester and love a good laugh... even if it's at my own expense, haha. I'm a loyal team player who thrives in team environments.
Wiri - Tupu Facilitator
Kia ora, my name is Wiri. I am 25 years old and very proud to be Māori. I grew up in P Naughty, also known as Palmerston North, before completing my schooling here in Kirikiriroa. I love sports, music, and anything involving competition. My red flag is that I'm way too competitive, but my green flag is that I love to see others win, and it's even better if I can help them achieve their goals.
Gary - Tupu Facilitator
Ko Tainui te Waka
Ko Waikato te awa
Ko Maungatautari me Maungakawa oku Maunga
Ko Ngati Haua te iwi
Ko Ngati Te Oro te hapuu
Ko Raungaiti te Marae
Kia ora everyone. I come from a small town called Waharoa, known to be a little bit rough around the edges. I am proud of my home/upbringing and all the learnings that came with it. A little korero about me: I am a Dad. I have three beautiful kids with my partner Whai-i-te-rangi. I am truly fortunate to work alongside the Taku Wairua team and look forward to making a positive change any way I can.
Arorangi - Tupu Facilitator
Kia ora, my name is Arorangi Totorewa Tauranga, and I am proud to come from Ngaati Awa, Ngaati Maniapoto, and Tainui. I am a mother to two beautiful children who always keep me on my toes. Sport, particularly touch and rugby, are a big part of my life. I find joy in being surrounded by my whānau and positive, uplifting people. My true passion lies in helping others grow, especially when it comes to pursuing their own dreams and passions.
Tupu In Action
