Te Whai Ao Charitable Trust
Movement. Mātauranga. Opportunity.
Te Whai Ao Charitable Trust is a kaupapa-driven organisation committed to uplifting whānau through accessible health, wellbeing, and education pathways. Guided by mātauranga Māori and community-led practice, our mahi focuses on strengthening tinana, hinengaro, whānau, and wairua — creating environments where people can grow with confidence, purpose, and belonging.
Our programmes are delivered through strong partnerships and are grounded in the belief that movement is medicine, education creates opportunity, and community connection builds resilience.
Our Programmes
Kanorau
Kanorau Functional Fitness
Inclusive community fitness — movement as medicine
Kanorau Functional Fitness is a free, inclusive community fitness programme designed to remove barriers to physical activity and support holistic wellbeing.
- Improved physical health and mobility
- Mental wellbeing and stress regulation
- Increased confidence and self-belief
- Social connection and community belonging
- Sustainable movement habits
Rangatahi
Kanorau Rangatahi
Foundations for confidence, leadership, and life pathways
Kanorau Rangatahi is a foundational programme for rangatahi that uses movement, discipline, and tikanga-informed practice as tools for personal development.
- Self-confidence through showing up and completing challenges
- Discipline, routine, and accountability
- Emotional regulation and mental resilience
- Leadership, responsibility, and positive role modelling
- Social skills, communication, and teamwork
Pathways
Mission Ready Scholarships
Te Whai Ao Charitable Trust × Mission Ready
In alignment with the Trust Deed and charitable objectives of Te Whai Ao Charitable Trust, we partner with Mission Ready to provide education and scholarship pathways for our community.
- Rangatahi and adult participants are supported into tech education pathways
- Scholarships and sponsored learning opportunities are made accessible
- Participants receive foundational preparation, pastoral support, and guidance
- The pathway supports long-term employment and economic wellbeing outcomes
Governance & Alignment
All programmes and partnerships delivered under Te Whai Ao Charitable Trust operate in accordance with the Trust Deed, ensuring:
- Clear charitable purpose
- Transparent governance
- Community benefit at the centre of all decision-making
- Ethical, values-based partnerships