Here Toitū

I have previously worked in tertiary education in Australia and NZ for 15+ years in customer service and as a student advisor. I am currently studying social work so I can continue to learn about other cultures and how I can be an ally and support people to be the best version of themselves.I enjoy working with people to discover their strengths and achieve goals. I strongly believe education should be accessible to everyone and love to help people find study pathways that work best for them. I am passionate about helping people understand and care for their health and wellbeing. Providing a safe and warm space for conversations to flow is what I aim to create in my practice.

I have a background in working with people and organisations across a number of sectors. My previous work has been extensively in Government and NGO’s in the Health and Safety sectors and with Work & Income as a Work Broker, so I have a clear understanding of the system and how it aligns with the purpose of Here Toitū.

Kia ora, I am a registered social worker with experience working in the community within the housing and homelessness sector, specifically with children, whānau, and individuals. I specialise in navigating complex challenges with a caring and empathetic approach, working collaboratively with individuals and community organisations to ensure they receive the right support, and are empowered by choice and freedom to work towards making positive change. 

My last position was working in the community health sector as a Partnership Community Worker supporting Māori/Pasifika/Low Income/Refugee/Migrant people of any age to address barriers to accessing primary health care. Prior to that, I worked with five to eighteen year-olds who had a loved one with an addiction in individual support/mentoring/education, as well as designing and delivering group programmes.I have a Diploma in Youth Work and a Bachelors in Youth Development. I am a registered Youth Development Worker and hold current roles within the youth sector and rainbow community in Ōtautahi.

Kia ora, I have recently completed a Bachelor of Social Work, and I am now working towards gaining my full Social Work registration.  I strive to work with a strengths-based perspective that upholds mana and supports those to reach their potential.I grew up rurally, and have past experience working in the primary industries, alongside my study which I thoroughly enjoyed.

I am a registered social worker and I have worked most recently with Comcare Charitable Trust – Housing team and with Specialist Mental Health Child and Youth Day program.I have worked in supporting people who experience mental health issues and I have extensive knowledge of services and supports available in the community.In a previous life I was a mechanic before changing career direction; and I also play the guitar.

I have most recently worked at The Salvation Army (since 2020) as a Senior Caseworker. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Criminology, and First Class Honours in Criminology from my tertiary studies.I love to journey with individuals and whanau to facilitate positive lifestyle changes and social inclusion. I have completed caring and coordinating roles in Japan, the UK, and New Zealand. I have previously worked as a Probation Officer for Corrections supporting clients with complex needs.

Kia ora,

I have a background in working with people and enjoy making a difference in their lives. In my past work experience, I have worked as a youth worker, and served in the NZ Air Force. I also advocate for neurodiversity, believing in the importance of embracing the unique strengths that come with this. My passion for sport and exercise not only drives my personal wellbeing but also fuels a commitment to promoting a holistic approach to health. I’m looking forward to working alongside whānau on their journey to help achieve their goals.

Kathryn is one of our new Kaitohutohu, dedicated MSD Advisor, working with whānau who participate in Here Toitū. Kathryn's primary role is to work in collaboration with our Kaimanaaki to support whānau social and employment needs such as income support, health support (i.e. access to Disability Allowance), housing, job placement support, etc.

Kia ora,

In my role as Kaimanaaki (Health Navigator) in Ōtautahi, I specialize in helping tāngata whaiora overcome health challenges and employment barriers. My approach centers on being culturally sensitive and understanding the unique journey and strengths of each individual and their whānau.I provide advocacy and tailored support to help access appropriate community services, work readiness skills, and job opportunities, all with the aim of enhancing a sense of social connectedness and wellbeing. I am currently completing a Master of Applied Social Work through Massey University and hold a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Hons), majoring in Expressive Arts Therapy.In addition I bring an extensive knowledge base and background in the social and public services sector, spanning across organizations like ACC, Ministry of Justice (Family Court) and Christchurch City Mission.

My most recent employment was with MHAPS (since 2017) as the Youth Program Team Leader.I have a Bachelor of Arts Psychology Major as well as many certificates in business/ project management, social services and counselling.I have worked in several mentoring and academic supporting roles advocating mental health, especially for Māori and psychology students. I also worked at He Waka Tapu within AOD Rehabilitation and at Equitas as a Rehabilitation Life Coach for clients with traumatic brain injuries.

I joined Pegasus Health in January 2019 as Team Leader for the Here Toitū Team. I previously worked at ACC for many years in various roles, mostly in Clinical Services in the Rehabilitation Team, co-managing a national team of Rehabilitation Advisors.I love spending time with my family, and exploring the North Canterbury countryside with my mountain bike.

Nicky is one of our Kaitohutohu, a dedicated MSD Advisor, working with whānau who participate in Here Toitū. Nicky's primary role is to work in collaboration with our Kaimanaaki to support whānau’s social and employment needs such as income support, health support (i.e. access to Disability Allowance), housing, job placement support, etc.

I have significant experience in supporting people suffering from mental illness, addiction and other health and disability illnesses. I previously worked for Workwise- in the area of supporting people on release from prison.I really enjoy making a difference in people’s lives. I am well connected with supports and resources in the community and I love technology.

I am a registered nurse and have a background in working in the community as a Case Manager working to support people to live independently in their homes. This included trying to find funding and services for people who had health issues in the younger age groups plus supporting the more senior members of our community. My area covered a mix of rural and urban communities. I have also had experience as a practice nurse and working in the aged care sector.

My previous employment is working as a high school guidance counsellor. My qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree in Counselling and a Certificate in Mental Health and Addiction Support. I enjoy diversity and working alongside individuals from all walks of life. I work from a person-centered approach and believe that individuals have the strength and ability within themselves to know what works best for them. I look forward to walking alongside you on your journey.

Terry is one of our Kaitohutohu, a dedicated MSD Advisor, working with whānau who participate in Here Toitū. Terry's primary role is to work in collaboration with our Kaimanaaki to support whānau social and employment needs such as income support, health support (i.e. access to Disability Allowance), housing, job placement support, etc.