< Back Laura Christie Kia ora e te whānau! Ko Laura toku ingoa. I'm a Registered Social Worker and Professional Supervisor with experience across a range of settings including youth AOD, child protection, housing, youth development and community-based practice. I am passionate about supporting practitioners to reflect, explore complexity and feel confident and supported within their mahi. I am currently a Practice Lead at an NGO and also work in private practice providing supervision to practitioners of different backgrounds. I have been working as a social worker for the past 9 years, with almost ten years of youth work experience prior to that. My Approach I provide reflective, strengths-based supervision, supporting a collaborative space where practitioners can explore challenges, celebrate successes, strengthen their practice, maintain their wellbeing and grow in confidence in their mahi. Qualifications Masters of Applied Social Work (Massey University) Clinical Supervision Skills for Health and Social Service Professionals (New Zealand Coaching and Mentoring Centre) Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Supervision (Massey University - set to complete 2027) Profesional Association Social Work Registration Board Aotearoa New Zealand Association of Social Workers Connect with the Supervisor Directly Previous Contact me Next

< Back Research Academic research that has informed our kaupapa The research shared here informs and strengthens our kaupapa - helping us understand what supports young people to thrive, what effective youth development looks like in practice, and how the youth sector can continue to grow its impact across Aotearoa. Download Resources Previous Next

< Back Create and Sip Art Evolve Wellington Youth Service Target Age: 12-24 Address: 65 Cuba Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011, New Zealand When: 21 May 2026 4:30 am https://www.evolveyouth.org.nz/groups-and-programmes lucy@evolveyouth.org.nz “Create and Sip” is an event we designed to uplift and project youth voice. Our event will provide spaces for young people to share their voice on topics that are important to them such as campaigns, their interests, raising awareness etc via canvas painting, poster making, and zine making; all to be shared on the walls at Evolve and through our social media. Our event is designed to encourage young people to share their voice in different and creative ways, in a space where they can connect with other young people. Alongside different creative stations, we will have a Mocktail creating station, delicious kai, a low-sensory room (for breaks and people with sensory needs) and a fun music playlist of local kiwi artists. We will invite and hope to have local MPs in attendance to connect with and hear young people's perspectives first hand. Our hope is that young people can come to this event and feel they have expressed their voice visually, and have been (or will be) heard. We want the event to project their voices to the wider community, as they see fit. Previous Next

< Back Alan Tāne Solomon Kia ora, I’m driven by people, progress, and the energy that comes from building something meaningful. Over more than 20 years, I’ve worked across sales, coaching, facilitation, relationship development, youthwork and leadership in environments where adaptability, confidence, and connection matter. My experience spans property, fintech, hospitality, health and wellness, business development consultancy, youth and education, including community-based work, all of which have shaped a practical, people-first approach to how I operate. My foundation was built as a Physical Training Instructor in the Royal New Zealand Air Force, where high personal standards, discipline, and accountability were non-negotiable. That environment developed my confidence under pressure and my ability to lead, motivate, and bring structure to fast-moving situations. Since then, my path through journalism, media, and higher education has strengthened my communication skills, curiosity, and ability to tell clear, compelling stories that resonate with different audiences. I’m naturally sociable and thrive where relationships are central. As a facilitator, tutor, and coach across health, business, and life contexts, I’ve led workshops, events, and programs that require reading the room, adjusting on the fly, and keeping people engaged. I enjoy creating momentum, finding practical solutions, and bringing ideas to life, whether that’s through sales conversations, events, or collaborative projects. I also bring experience in governance and community leadership, having helped establish and guide charitable trusts, mentored community members, and served as a Justice of the Peace. This has reinforced the importance of integrity, cultural awareness, and doing things properly while still staying flexible and forward-thinking. I value people, their story, ideas, creativity, and genuine connection. I’m motivated by opportunities where innovation, collaboration, and energy combine to create impact, and I bring a confident, adaptable mindset to whatever I take on. If there’s room to build, connect, and move things forward, that’s where I’m at my best. My Approach As a supervisor, I take a structured, practical, and people focused approach. I create a safe and supportive environment where individuals can reflect, develop insight, and take clear action. My focus is on building accountability, strengthening decision making, and supporting professional growth through honest, constructive conversations. Drawing on my background in coaching and leadership, I help individuals identify challenges, unpack real issues, and develop practical strategies that improve both personal effectiveness and workplace performance. Qualifications - Australia New Zealand Coaching Alliance - Professional Coaching Certification (2020) - Australia New Zealand Coaching Alliance - Associate Coaching Certification (2019) - NZ ITO Skills Assessor – Unit Standard 4908 (2017) - CareerForce Youth Certificates Level 3 & 4 (2015-2016) - Waiariki Institute of Technology – 3 x Diplomas in Communications, Bi-Cultural Journalism & National Journalism (2012–2013) - Royal NZ Air Force/Massey University – BA Sport & Exercise Science (2005–2006, extramural) - NZ ITO SFRITO - Group Fitness Instruction (2005) - Royal NZ Air Force - PTI Qualification & Leadership Training (2004–2007) Profesional Association Korowai Tupu Australia New Zealand Coaching Alliance Connect with the Supervisor Directly Previous Contact me Next

< Back Youth Week - Rangatahi Filmmakers Film Day One Hapai te Hāeata + Hutt city Libraries - Eastbourne Neighbourhood Hubb Target Age: 12-24 Address: 38 Rimu Street, Eastbourne, Lower Hutt 5013, New Zealand When: 18 May 2026 6:00 am https://events.huttcity.govt.nz/event?id=226611 juliana@dofilm.co.nz Celebrate Youth Week with a special short film showcase. Join us for a screening of a selection of short films created by young people, sharing stories and messages that are important to them. This is an opportunity to support youth voices, celebrate creativity, and experience thoughtful storytelling that reflects the connections and experiences shaping their lives. Previous Next

About Us Ara Taiohi is the peak body for youth development in Aotearoa. We are connected to over 4,000 people who work with young people across Aotearoa every day. We are a Tiriti-based, membership organisation which resources and advocates for the youth development sector. Vision An empowered ecosystem of youth development, where rangatahi thrive Mission Ara Taiohi exists to champion youth development and young people, advocating for those who work with rangatahi, and nurturing their capacity and capability. Tūruapō He taiao whakapūmau whakawhanake taiohi, e pūāwai mai ai a rangatahi. Whakatakanga Ka noho a Ara Taiohi hei kawau mārō i te mahi whakawhanake taiohi, i te hunga taiohi hoki, hei waha kōrero mō rātou e taunaki nei i te rangatahi ā ka poipoia hoki ō rātou raukaha me ō rātou āheinga. Youth Work is the development of a relationship that honours the mana of a young person, where young people actively participate, discover their power, and choose to engage for as long as agreed; and that supports their holistic, positive development as young people that contribute to themselves, their whānau, community and world. Our Values Uphold Kaitiakitanga (Guardianship) As guardians of youth development, we nurture the sector with best practices and innovative solutions. Guided by kaitiakitanga, we are stewards of the futures of both our youth and our sector, caring for their wellbeing and development with respect and responsibility. We pledge to protect, preserve, and enhance the resources and potential of our rangatahi, ensuring a legacy of empowerment and growth for generations to come. Pursue Mana Taurite (Equity and Inclusivity) We envision a world where every voice is heard, every culture is celebrated, and every young person has an equal chance to shine. Ara Taiohi is dedicated to fostering equity, ensuring that every young person receives the opportunity and support to thrive. We champion fairness and actively work to resolve systemic issues, creating an inclusive environment where rangatahi potential is recognised and nurtured. Practise Manaakitanga (Care and Respect) Our approach is grounded in aroha, care, and respect for all. Whether collaborating with youth workers or advocating for change, we lead with kindness and generosity. Manaakitanga is our commitment to nurturing and uplifting the mana of everyone we interact with. It is about fostering an environment of respect, generosity, and support, ensuring that every interaction acknowledges and empowers the inherent dignity and potential within each person. Weave Kotahitanga (Unity) Like the intertwined threads of woven harakeke, we bring people together, uniting our strengths to support the collective wellbeing of our rangatahi. Ara Taiohi champions unity and collective action, weaving together diverse voices and strengths to create a harmonious and supportive environment. Our commitment to collaboration and shared purpose ensures that together, we build a stronger, more inclusive community. Our Whakapapa Since the 1960s we have had a rich history of large national youth organisations establishing umbrella organisations as a way to ‘provide a national voice on youth organisation interests’. Ara Taiohi grew out of a merger between the New Zealand Aotearoa Adolescent Health and Development (NZAAHD) and the National Youth Workers Network Aotearoa (NYWNA), who come together to form a new national youth sector organisation. Ara Taiohi was launched at the INVOLVE national youth sector conference in November 2010 and became fully operational at the inaugural AGM in February 2011. Our Name Our name, Ara Taiohi was chosen in consultation by Māori members and our kaumatua, Tamati Cairns and Ruru Hona. ‘Ara’ means ‘pathway, lane, passageway to/from’ and ‘taiohi’ means ‘young person’ in Aotearoa. Therefore, Ara Taiohi is the pathway to and from young people. As a peak body we are committed to developing projects and sharing resources, tools and information to enhance practice. We bring together the power of our diverse sector to champion and advocate on issues that affects young people, and those who work with them. Together, we create a nationwide movement of people who work with young people. Our collective skills, knowledge and passion will help shape an Aotearoa where young people are valued, included and will thrive. We are the proud kaitiaki of

< Back Kristina Cavit He whangai ahau, kāore au i te mohio i tōku whakapapa. Tōku pepeha e hono ana kī tōku whānau me ngā wahi e rongo ana au nō hea ahau. Nō ngā hou e whā Te wāhi mō te hononga ā wairua ki Hokianga Te motu mō te hononga ā wairua ki Te whenua Tominika Ngā tāngata mō te hononga ā wairua, ko te whānau Atawhai. My Approach With 15+ years of experience supporting rangatahi and whānau, I bring expertise in youth work, trauma-informed practices, mindfulness, program development, and mentoring. As founder of The Kindness Institute, I’m passionate about empowering people to feel heard, resilient, and confident in their mahi. My kaitiakitanga (supervision) is mana-enhancing and grounded in Te Whare Tapa Whā. I was honoured to become a Member of the NZ Order of Merit for my youth mahi and I’m dedicated to empowering others to approach rangatahi & mahi challenges with the right tools and skills. I love supporting people to build resilience & to strengthen their ability to navigate the complexities of mahi. My hope is for you to feel heard, confident and competent. To me, this mahi is centered around lifting your mana and wairua. Qualifications Qualified supervisor (NZQA, Level 5 Supervision). Supervising since 2013. Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit. Finalist for Young New Zealander of the Year (2018) & recipient of a Local Hero Award (2014) Founder of The Kindness Institute and NPH NZ. Co-Founder of Fat Yoga NZ & Co-founder of TAIORA, Mental health trainings for youth workers, educators & health professionals Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (Mind body medicine, University of Massachusetts) & The Work of Byron Katie (200+ hours facilitation) Mindfulness and yoga training for marginalized youth with the Holistic Life Foundation (Baltimore, USA). Certified yoga teacher. Te reo Māori Level 5 Diploma graduate (Te Wānanga Takiura) & Bachelor of Arts (University of Hawaii, University of Salamanca, University of Auckland). “Kristina is skilled at ‘holding space’ for a broad range of people. Her passion for The Work and desire to share this with people is the real deal. I can’t think of a single person who wouldn’t benefit from working with Kristina. If you would like to have a little more freedom in your life and thoughts, I would highly recommend having a session.” — Emma, HR Consultant “Kristina has helped me to relax and gain peace of mind. It’s not hyperbole to say that the time spent with Kristina has changed the way I live my life for the better. Kristina has an amazing energy and ability to put anyone at ease. At first, I was very sceptical at first but once we’d done a few sessions I saw that it was an amazing tool. It’s helped me to relax and be less judgemental in my day-to-day to life.” — Dominic, Youth worker Profesional Association Korowai Tupu Connect with the Supervisor Directly Previous Contact me Next

< Back Junction Slam Youth Voice Shore Junction Target Age: 13-24 Address: 19 Northcote Road, Takapuna, Auckland 0620, New Zealand When: 20 May 2026 6:00 am https://member.shorejunction.nz/public/event/69dc2aaa9bd6cef7fc8e4a4b/youth-week- info@shorejunction.nz Get ready to make some noise at Junction Slam, a poetry and spoken word event happening Wednesday, May 20, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. We’re taking over the upstairs space at Shore Junction in Takapuna for a night dedicated to creative expression and real talk. Whether you’re a seasoned poet or just have something on your mind, this is your stage to show the world that your voice matters. Designed by youth for youth, this event is all about keeping things safe, inclusive, and chill. If you’re not feeling the spotlight, you can still get involved by signing up for our anonymous reading option, where someone else will perform your work for you. We’re capping the crowd to keep the vibes right and providing free food to keep everyone fueled. If you're between 13 and 24, come through, grab a snack, and help us celebrate Youth Week 2026 by being heard. Previous Next

< Back Te Ara Tipu Open Week Cultural Te Ora Hou Te Tairāwhiti Trust Target Age: 12-18 Address: When: 18 May 2026 3:30 am tetairawhiti@teorahou.org.nz PRIVATE EVENT 30 Desmond Rd, Te Hapara, Gisborne and Te Ora Hou HQ at Alfred Cox Skate Park Te Ara Tipu Open Week is a youth-led initiative in Tairāwhiti that brings rangatahi together in a shared space to explore their collective voice. The week centers on the creation and performance of an original haka that responds to the Youth Week theme: "Taringa whakarongo! Ki te reo o ngā taiohi – Our voices matter! We deserve to be heard". Throughout the week, participants will: - Collaborate on original kupu and movement that reflect what youth voice means to them. - Engage in sports, shared kai, and a community sausage sizzle at the local skatepark to connect with the wider public. - Perform and film their completed haka to be shared online with whānau and the community, amplifying the strength of youth leadership in the region. The event is planned and delivered by our Emerging Leaders rōpū, ensuring the kaupapa remains genuinely youth-led and grounded in manaakitanga. Previous Next

< Back Voices on Canvas Art Y Southland Target Age: 12-24 Address: 77 Tay Street, Invercargill 9810, New Zealand When: 19 May 2026 3:30 am tarryn.robbie@ymcasouth.org.nz youth focused paint and sip event focusing on how their voices matter Previous Next

< Back Musical Bingo Games & Kai Raise Up - Y North Target Age: 13-18 Address: 45 Totara Avenue, New Lynn, Auckland 0600, New Zealand When: 19 May 2026 5:00 am georgia.couch@ymcanorth.org.nz Dress up as your favourite musical act and come play bingo with us! Previous Next

Mahi Tūturu - the Landscape of Youth Work in Aotearoa Download Aotearoa Youth Research Download PYD & Wellbeing Literature Review Download