Individual Peer Support

Our team is made up of peer support workers who are qualified by experience—each of us has personal lived experience of mental distress and/or addiction. All peer workers complete peer support training that aligns with the competencies advocated by Te Pou, and all hold or are working towards a Level 4 Mental Health Support qualification.

Our work is enriched by a Kaupapa Māori peer support framework, developed in collaboration with our Kaumātua, Kori Hemi (Rātana). His guidance ensures that Mātauranga Māori and Te Ao Māori are woven throughout our support practices.

We also work in alignment with Te Awa Tupua—recognising the Whanganui River not only as a physical body of water but as a living and indivisible spiritual entity. This understanding shapes our connection to the land and our responsibilities to the people and natural world.

"Ko au te Awa, ko te Awa ko au – I am the River and the River is me."

This whakataukī reflects the deep, inalienable bond between the River and its people.

Our Approach

We meet people where they are, and support them in ways that feel most meaningful to them. Our approach is guided by tāngata whai ora—those seeking wellness. Rather than positioning ourselves as experts, we form intentional peer relationships rooted in empathy, mutual respect, and shared journeying.

We don’t fix, rescue, or correct. Instead, we listen deeply, share our experiences when invited, and model hope and healthy connection.

Because peer support can happen anywhere genuine connection is possible, our mahi extends into all areas of the community. We are here to build healthy, inclusive communities for all people.