Te Pihopa visits Waipuna: a formal welcome

Ngā mihi nui Te Pihopa, The Most Reverend Michael Gielen, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Christchurch, who visited Waipuna Youth Services this week for a Mihi Whakatau, to mihi to and learn about the work of our people and the people we support.

The visit on Tuesday 7 July 2026 was a meaningful occasion for Waipuna. A formal mihi whakatau was held at our centre at 349 Woodham Road, Wainoni, led by kaumātua Henare Te Karu, with karanga from Ngariri Nuku-Lee Waitokia and mihimihi from Jay Johnson. Himene were shared, including Waipuna E and He Honore, before hariru me te hongi brought everyone together.

Two traditions, one kaupapa

Our kaupapa in 2026 is strengthened by the influences of Te Ao Māori and Catholic Social Teaching principles. Both drive us to understand the needs of the communities we support, and provide the tools and collaborative focus that support us to support rangatahi towards growth and development.

For St John of God Hauora Trust, a visit from Te Pihopa is a powerful affirmation of our Hospitaller Mission. Our work, particularly our Young Parents Service, has been made possible in part through the generosity of significant charitable trusts including the Maurice Carter Charitable Trust, the Eliza White Charitable Trust, and the Tindall Foundation. We acknowledge Bishop Gielen’s connection to and advocacy within the wider Catholic and philanthropic community that makes long-term investment in rangatahi possible.

Mihi to our rangatahi

Mihi to the rangatahi who joined us to share their journey towards wellbeing. The immense amount of development you have committed to exceeds the level that many of the rest of us are called on to encounter. Kia kaha, kia māia, kia manawanui.

If you would like to read about the power of our experiential learning and Adventure Therapy services, review our recent social impact reports at The Value of Hope.