Growing the Next Generation of Whānau Ora Practitioners
Te Whānau o Waipareira's education and training arm, WaiTech, has welcomed its first two intakes into the New Zealand Certificate in Whānau Ora (Level 3), marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for whānau workforce development in West Auckland.
The programme opened with a whakatau, where Waipareira Chief Executive John Tamihere welcomed tauira and spoke of the responsibility and privilege that comes with walking alongside whānau. The whakatau was led by Matua Albie Tepania, Chair of Te Rōpū Kaumātua, grounding the beginning of this journey in the values, tikanga and kaupapa that have shaped Waipareira for generations.
Over the next 20 weeks, tauira will build the knowledge, skills and values needed to support whānau in achieving their aspirations, developing practical capability alongside a deep understanding of Whānau Ora practice.
Education has always been central to the Waipareira kaupapa. Through WaiTech, the organisation continues to create pathways into meaningful careers that strengthen whānau, build Māori capability and grow the future Whānau Ora workforce.
WaiTech is also delighted to welcome Kaiako Ursula Higgins and Operations Lead Grace Palaga to the team, as they help lead this new and important chapter.
Graduates of the New Zealand Certificate in Whānau Ora (Level 3) can progress directly into the New Zealand Diploma in Whānau Ora (Level 5), offering a seamless pathway for those committed to advancing their practice and leadership within Whānau Ora.
Congratulations to our inaugural cohort. We wish you every success as you begin this journey, and we look forward to seeing the difference you will make for whānau and our communities.