Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu today became the first iwi to sign a strategic partnership with Oranga Tamariki under s7AA of the Oranga Tamariki Act 1989.

Chief Executives Arihia Bennett (Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu) and Gráinne Moss (Oranga Tamariki) were in Wellington today for the signing.

Ms Bennett said the partnership, which is two years in the making, signifies a strong commitment from both organisations to deliver intergenerational benefits for tamariki, rangatahi and their whānau.

“Today’s signing records and formalises our shared values and strong commitment to build on the good work we have already done together. It will ensure appropriate engagement with mana whenua throughout Te Waipounamu and outcomes for all Ngāi Tahu tamariki and rangatahi no matter where they live.”

“I’m confident this is just the start of what is possible, and I look forward to more shared successes as a result of this strategic partnership.”

“Ngāi Tahu is constantly guided by our vision ‘Mō tātou, ā, mō kā uri ā muri ake nei – for us and for our children after us’ and working alongside Oranga Tamariki is key to that.”

Gráinne Moss said Oranga Tamariki was delighted to enter into this partnership with Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu. “This is a partnership that respects each other’s mana and it will ensure better outcomes for children, young people and their whānau, supported by shared protocols and principles.”

As stated in the partnership document: “By working together the partners aim to enhance the impact and effectiveness of their individual efforts to achieve enduring outcomes for Ngāi Tahu tamariki, rangatahi and whānau.”

Ms Bennett said Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu objectives will be met when there are no Ngāi Tahu tamariki or rangatahi in state care, when all Ngāi Tahu tamariki and rangatahi are connected and culturally supported, and when communities and organisations are working collaboratively to support whānau needs and aspirations.

ENDS

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