Community Education & Programmes
The work we do in the community is at the forefront of our mission. When we set up our programmes, we look closely at the areas in which we can help, aligning with the Sisters of Mercy and Te Waipuna Puawai’s values of meeting the unmet needs of the community through invitation.
Our programmes and initiatives are guided by three core themes:
Papatūānuku: fostering earth awareness and responding to the call to heal the environment
Te Tiriti o Waitangi: commitment to the Treaty of Waitangi and working in ways that work for Māori whānau and communities
Tikanga Atawhai: the practice of Mercy values
We provide community education classes and programmes to address the needs of women in the local community. Through self-development and culturally-based programmes, we focus on physical, mental, spiritual and whānau well-being.
As of Term 1, 2025 we offer our Community Education & Programmes at Umere with a slow roll-out at Glendene, and Counselling at Rānui.
For further information, please get in touch with our Programme Coordinator Josie Ruawhare: programmecoord@twp.org.nz
Wheiao Reo Wānanga
Wheiao Reo Wānanga provides a fun and stimulating learning environment that integrates Māori philosophy into a beginner’s Te Reo journey. It also serves as an Introduction to Te Ao Māori concepts, as well as introductions to; pepeha, mihi, whakapapa, and basic conversation sentences. You will also learn basic entry Practice of Māori activities, Mau Rakau, Rongoa, Theology & Identity.
Taught by Tāmati Patuwai (Ngāti Whātua), who is a Glen Innes boy through and through. Tāmati brings a vast knowledge of Te Reo Māori and Te Ao Māori concepts and has created an incredible learning environment where young and old can walk away learning something new.
During Term 1 2025, Wheiao Reo Wānanga runs every Monday from 10am to 12pm at our Umere office.
Creative Arts & Crafts
Let your creativity run free! Whether it's junk journalling, designing cake toppers, or working with a variety of materials to create unique crafts, Creative Arts & Crafts is your safe place to express yourself. It's an opportunity to explore different techniques, and build confidence in a safe and welcoming environment.
We’re thrilled to welcome Cherie as our newest facilitator this year! With an extensive background in the Arts & Crafts space, she brings a diverse skill set and a passion for creativity.
During Term 1 2025, Creative Arts & Crafts runs every Tuesday from 10am to 12pm at our Umere office.
Aua Hoki
Te Ara Whakahirahira, is an 8-week course that combines creativity, self-reflection, and connection. Throughout the program, you’ll design a personalised journal using fun, hands-on techniques like shaker packets, flip-outs, pockets, and hinges, bringing your ideas to life in a unique and interactive way.
Sophie will guide you through the creative process, taking part in writing exercises that encourage self-expression and personal growth. This course is a safe space to explore new ideas, discover your voice, and connect with others on a journey of creativity and self-discovery.
During Term 1 2025, Aua Hoki runs every Tuesday from 10am to 1pm at our Glendene office.
Digital Basic Computing
We are proud to partner with Literacy Aotearoa to offer free classes with supportive tutors in a positive learning environment! These classes are designed to help students build essential digital skills, making technology more accessible and user-friendly.
Participants will gain knowledge in key areas such as computer basics, online security, web-based email (Gmail and Outlook), internet navigation, and managing online profiles for social media and employment sites. This is a great opportunity to develop confidence and improve digital literacy for everyday life and work.
During Term 1 2025, Digital Basic Computing runs every Wednesday from 10am to 1pm at our Umere office.
Rongoā Whenua Rongoā Wairua
Join Sophie and explore Rongoā Māori through the framework of Te Whare Tapa Whā, engaging with traditional healing practices that nurture well-being. This journey offers a deeper connection to te taiao (the natural world), tīkanga (customs), and hauora (health), enriching both personal and collective wellness.
Each session provides hands-on experiences, allowing tauira to gain valuable insights into holistic healing. This learning opportunity supports your hauora journey, blending tradition with practical knowledge to enhance well-being and cultural connection.
During Term 1 2025, Rongoā Whenua Rongoā Wairua runs Thursday from 10am to 1pm at our Umere office.
COMING SOON!
We have future workshops coming to our spaces across Umere, Glendene and Rānui.
In the near future we will be running:
Raranga Wānanga (Glendene)
Raranga Wānanga (Umere)
To register your interest and to stay informed by our team please email Josie Ruawhare: programmecoord@twp.org.nz