Foundations, Futures, and Fierce Hope

In early 2025, Te Ariroa Evolutions became an incorporated society, officially registered under the Companies Office. This milestone solidified our commitment to supporting rangatahi in Ōpōtiki and provided a strong foundation for future initiatives.

We secured a venue at the Māori Presbyterian Church, providing a spacious and welcoming environment for our activities. The venue offers ample indoor space, a stage, storage facilities, and a backyard with a feijoa tree—perfect for our community garden plans. Its central location, near key community services, enhances accessibility for our rangatahi.

Our AfterSchool Vibes programme has been a resounding success, offering a safe and creative space for tamariki and rangatahi every Wednesday from 4–6 pm. Activities include arts and crafts, games, and opportunities for personal growth, fostering a sense of belonging and community.

In February 2025, we initiated a feasibility study in collaboration with Impact Consulting to explore the development of a dedicated youth centre. We encouraged community members to share their stories, suggestions, and aspirations, ensuring that the voices of Ōpōtiki's residents guide our vision.

We've introduced several new initiatives to empower our rangatahi:

• Creative Expression: Providing outlets for art, storytelling, music, and movement to foster healing and identity.

• Rangatahi Entrepreneurs: Supporting young people in turning their ideas into real-world opportunities through workshops and mentoring.

• Rangatahi Leadership: Cultivating leadership skills through camps, wānanga, and community projects.

• Legacy Building: Encouraging rangatahi to create lasting impacts that honor their tūpuna and shape the future.

As we continue to grow, our focus remains on creating safe, inclusive spaces where rangatahi can thrive. We're committed to securing additional funding, expanding our programmes, and strengthening community partnerships to support the aspirations of Ōpōtiki's young people.