Ko Wai Au?

Kia ora! I’m Alex Le Long, a teacher and fierce advocate for rangatahi based in Ōpōtiki. With over a decade of experience at Ōpōtiki College, Western Heights, and Massey High, I’ve worked across classrooms and communities with a deep passion for literacy, creativity, and helping our young people realise their potential.

Te Ariroa Evolutions is the heart of my vision—a kaupapa that brings together learning, healing, identity, and imagination. We're building the Ōpōtiki Rangatahi Pā—a youth centre grounded in aroha and manaaki, designed to uplift our tamariki and rangatahi through after-school programmes, workshops, and meaningful connection.

The name Te Ariroa carries deep significance. It comes from Ariroa, a moon phase that symbolises long journeys, reflection, and insight. Growth takes time. Healing isn’t linear. This kupu reminds me—and all of us—that we walk winding paths, and we’re not meant to walk them alone.

The name Ari was gifted to me years ago by a pepi I was nannying—he was raised in te reo Māori and his whānau chose to call me Ari. It became more than a nickname. It was a tohu—a sign of the path I was meant to walk: one of teaching, nurturing, and creating transformative spaces.

The word Evolutions speaks to the constant change we experience—as individuals, as a hapori, and in this ever-shifting world. Ōpōtiki is evolving too. I believe our rangatahi deserve to evolve with it, in spaces where their creativity, voice, and future are centred.

Through AfterSchool Vibes and other kaupapa, we create safe, empowering spaces where young people can express themselves, dream big, and be seen. It’s about breaking cycles of intergenerational māmae and supporting a future full of possibility.

Years ago, I began writing a blog called Evolution and Imagination—documenting my own healing and self-discovery. That journey continues here, through Te Ariroa Evolutions. I'm still learning, still growing—but I’m here, doing the mahi, walking alongside our hāpori and imagining new futures together.