Find out about our offerings - Trainings | Products | Downloadable Resources Resources Your place to access resources and training that strengthen your youth development practice, help you support young people, and get you linked up with other amazing kaimahi in the sector. Trainings Attend an upcoming Code of Ethics or Mana Taiohi workshop as an individual or talk with us about delivering a training for your organisation. Find Out More Shop Resources Ara Taiohi has a range of publications and resources designed to guide and support those who work with young people and enhance youth engagement. Find Out More Download Resources Many of our resources are available to download free of charge - supporting youth workers and the wider sector to access tools and insights that strengthen their practice. Find Out More

Whanaungatanga With young people we prioritise whanaungatanga, taking time to build and sustain meaningful and trusting relationships. Whanaungatanga is about relationship, kinship and a sense of family connection. It relates to all relationships in a young person’s life, including those in the digital space. When we prioritise whanaungatanga we invest in high trust relationships that are reciprocal, genuine, authentic intentional and mana enhancing. Young people are supported, with a strong foundation of belonging. Mana Taiohi with JJ and Arohauni Whanaungatanga In this expert from Kaiparahuarahi (Vol.1, No.2), Jono Harrison and the team at Tararua Community Youth Services explore Whanaungatanga Read Kaiparahuarahi Whanaungatanga and the Code of Ethics 14. Kia Awatea | Transparency 15. Matatapu | Condidentiality 16. Ngā Tauārai | Boundaries 17. Kia Mataara Ki Ngā Ripa Tauārai | Knowing Your Limits Explore Mana Taiohi Click on the images below to explore each principle and see relevant resources.

Add Your Event to the Official Youth Week Calendar If your event is public, tell us all about and spread the word to rangatahi in your rohe! Your Youth Week Event Title of your event * Event Organiser * Event Address* Date* Day Month Year Start Time* Time : Hours Minutes AM Event Type Online Events Health & Sport Games & Kai Art Music & Dance Cultural Educational Youth Market Film Screening Youth Voice Other Short description of your event* Event Image Upload PNG/ JPG Is your event open to the public?* Yes, the more the merrier No, members of our org only Registration Link Target age (click all that apply) 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 Contact email address* Submit

A list of institutions and courses to help you in your journey as a Youth Worker Qualifications Check out these youth work and youth development courses and institutions in Aotearoa. Praxis, WelTec and University of Canterbury are Korowai Tupu endorsed providers. Graduates with any of the following diplomas or degrees from these institutions automatically meet the Korowai Tupu Core Competency entry requirements. Providers To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key.

Our Commitment to te Tiriti o Waitangi Our commitment At Ara Taiohi, we are committed to upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi as the foundation of our work with and for taiohi across Aotearoa. Guided by tikanga and matauranga Māori, Te Tiriti is woven through every aspect of our governance, management, and practice. We honour Te Tiriti by drawing on Māori conceptual principles that shape and enrich the culture of our organisation, ensuring that Ara Taiohi continues to reflect the partnerships within the people we represent in Aotearoa. Our Te Tiriti Partnership Policy

Our Vision and Goals Our Vision An empowered ecosystem of youth development, where rangatahi thrive. Tūruapō He taiao whakapūmau whakawhanake taiohi, e pūāwai mai ai a rangatahi. Strategic Direction 2024-2030 Ara Taiohi weaves within our sector as a partner, an advocate and a resource for those who dedicate their lives to journeying with taiohi. 2024-2030 Full Strategy Our Goals The following goals outline our strategic direction for the coming years as we continue to uphold the mana of young people in Aotearoa, support those who work with rangatahi, and champion positive change in the sector. Connect The Sector by weaving networks of support, understanding and collaboration. Over the next 6 years, we aim to: > Provide opportunities for intentional engagement across the motu > Codesign equitable solutions for diverse communities within the sector > Paint a clearer picture of the sector at large > Build deeper relationships and connections with existing and developing networks/communities > Foster a sense of belonging where the sector all see themselves as part of Ara Taiohi Raise The Standards and accountability by embracing learning, innovation, and continuous improvement. Over the next 6 years, we aim to: > Continue to create and grow accessible and relevant trainings and resources in person and online > Curate evidence-based mātauranga that further informs policy and practice > Strengthen cohesive workforce development structures and improvement plans – quality > Affirm and advance the professional identity of Youth Work Champion Youth Development by advocating for the rights, needs and potential of rangatahi and our sector. Over the next 6 years, we aim to: > Build influence in order to speak on systemic issues affecting rangatahi, the youth development workforce and the youth sector > Shift the dial on the perception of young people in Aotearoa > Clarify and promote the value of youth development, Youth Work, and Mana Taiohi > Build understanding and implementation of Mana Taiohi systemically > Invest in the relationships and structures that build capacity for Whai Wāhitanga across society Promote Sustainability by nurturing environments for the sector to thrive. Over the next 6 years, we aim to: > Tell the story of the sector’s whakapapa and pūrakau to strengthen our turangawaewae > Embed a collective commitment to Te Tiriti for youth development, under the guidance of/ informed by Ngā Kaihoe > Continue to grow internal infrastructure for longevity > Advocate for the state of Youth Work, its impact and the need for appropriate investment > Promote care for te taiao within our communities

Highlighting some of the wide range of mahi we engage in Kaupapa Ara Taiohi is the peak body for youth development in Aotearoa. We are a national membership based organisation connected to over 3,700 individuals and organisations who represent a diverse range of groups and practitioners that work with young people. Youth Week Youth Week is a nationwide festival of events organised by young New Zealanders to celebrate the talents, passion and success of local young people. INVOLVE INVOLVE is Aotearoa’s national youth development biennial conference — a vibrant gathering of youth workers, rangatahi, researchers, and sector leaders. Over two dynamic days, it’s a space to connect, learn, and be inspired through powerful kōrero, creative sessions, and shared experiences that celebrate and strengthen youth work across the motu. MOSAIC Our MOSAIC resources support youth workers to hold safe, meaningful kōrero with rangatahi about racism, discrimination, and values, and to navigate situations where young people express discriminatory views. Our Partnerships

Korowai Tupu Application If you believe your work with young people and your ability to advocate for them would be enhanced by having your professional identity recognised, then applying for Korowai Tupu membership is for you. Korowai Tupu - Registration of Interest This form is for anyone interested in finding our more information about becoming a Korowai Tupu member. Once completed one of our team will contact you. First name* Last name* Email* Phone* Organisation Have you completed (or are you in the process of completing) any of the following qualifications? Diploma of Youth Work (Te Pukenga/ WelTec) Bachelor of Youth Development (Te Pukenga/ WelTec) Bachelor in Youth and Community Leadership (University of Canterbury) Although anyone can apply to Korowai Tupu, there is a tailored application process for students and graduates from these courses. Have you any particular questions about becoming a Korowai Tupu member? Submit

Core Competencies In 2023, Korowai Tupu updated to ten Core Competencies for Youth Work to reflect Mana Taiohi. Developed through sector-wide agreement, this first iteration was grounded in the principles of Aotearoa's Youth Development Strategy. These competencies have since informed qualifications development and continue to shape positive youth development in Aotearoa, with a commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Based on sector feedback, we require members of Korowai Tupu to demonstrate core competencies. We assess their youth development experience, qualifications, and practice. Our assessors review all ten competencies, gathering evidence of the applicant’s understanding and skills. The Core Competencies of Youth Work 1 / Demonstrates An Understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi Including bicultural partnerships and the values and aspirations of iwi Māori and non-Māori 2 / Whakamana Taiohi Works in a strengths-based approach to whakamana taiohi –demonstrates their understanding of working from a strengths-based approach; to build on strength, respond to need and foster growth 3 / Acknowledging Mauri Demonstrates understanding of the context of young people in Aotearoa 4 / Whakapapa: Ko Wai Au, Ko Wai Koe, Ko Wai Tātou Demonstrates the importance of supporting the development of identity in young people 5 / Te Ao: The World We Are In Demonstrates understanding of the context of youth work – the history, role, and practice of youth work 6 / Explores Hononga Identifying and strengthening connectedness – to build, strengthen or restore a young person’s connectedness to their key social environments 7 / Prioritise Whanaungatanga Demonstrates their understanding of building quality relationships, creating a supportive environment, connecting and working inclusively with young people from diverse backgrounds and cultures 8 / Upholds and Extends Manaakitanga Caring for young people, ensuring their holistic safety and demonstrating their understanding of ensuring the safety and well-being of young people 9 / Practices Whai Wāhitanga Creating space for youth participation – demonstrates their understanding of facilitating youth participation to actively engage and involve and empower young people 10 / Informed By Rich And Diverse Mātauranga Youth workers are reflective practitioners – demonstrate an understanding of being a reflective youth work practitioner, using supervision and other tools to ensure their practice is healthy and developing. Korowai Tupu Membership In the Korowai Tupu application, you’ll need to provide examples of your work with young people, colleagues, and your employer, as well as your knowledge of youth development, ethics, and professional growth, to show an understanding around Youth Work knowledge and practice. Become a professional member and take your professional practice to the next level. Start Membership Application Transforming Practice After attaining membership, Korowai Tupu members are expected to engage in transforming practice activities regularly to keep our core competencies alive. Transforming practice includes ongoing professional development, training, conferences, workshops that you attend or facilitate, supervision, reading, intentional networking, reflection on actual experiences with young people, and other innovative activities. Measuring and recording this each year is not about compliance; rather, transforming practice gives us an opportunity to pause and reflect on our learning from the previous year, it reminds us how we’re continually evolving, ensuring our profession remains dynamic and responsive to young people. All current Korowai Tupu members will receive a form to fill out each year that reflects on their transforming practice activities. We encourage you to keep track of these items throughout the year so we can collate a full picture of your investment in your practice. As a sector, we’re deeply invested in education and training and bringing people together to share learnings and growth. Got questions? Get in touch so we can start working together. First Name Last Name Email Message Send Thanks for submitting!

Career as a Youth Worker Youth Work is more than just a job—it’s a commitment to empower and uplift young people in Aotearoa. As youth workers, we play a vital role in supporting rangatahi to navigate challenges, build confidence, and reach their full potential. A career as a youth worker is rooted in relationships, advocacy, and positive youth development. Whether you’re working in youth organisations, schools, health services, or justice settings, Youth Work is about walking alongside young people, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are upheld. If you’re passionate about making a difference, explore the pathways, qualifications, and professional development opportunities available to help you thrive in this rewarding field. Qualifications Details of recognised Youth Work qualifications. Supervision Supervision provides youth workers with a safe place to reflect on professional development, personal support, organisational and practice issues. Code of Ethics An agreed set of guidelines for Youth Work in Aotearoa to ensure that youth work is carried out in a safe, skilled, ethical manner. Professional Development Staying informed, responsive, and equipped with the skills needed to support young people in a constantly changing world. Korowai Tupu Korowai Tupu is the Professional Association for Youth Work in Aotearoa. It is dedicated to forming genuine relationships with young people, their whānau, and the wider community to promote positive youth development. Youth work is a unique profession, and Aotearoa is a unique nation, which is why Korowai Tupu was designed by youth workers for youth workers to ensure it is an inclusive process for all, recognising experience, qualifications, and training. Read More

Annual Reports There is so much to celebrate and be inspired by in the youth development sector. Click the links below to read about our amazing kaimahi, rōpū, and members' achievements. 2024 - 2025 Report Our 2024–2025 Annual Report is out now - celebrating a year of connection, growth, and impact in the youth development sector. 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019

Search the member register of Korowai Tupu, the professional association of Youth Work in Aotearoa Our Current Members Our members are the backbone of our sector, working with young people on a daily basis. This tool allows you to explore our current membership. Search Database Sam Te Kira Wellington Eddy Davis-Rae Otago Sammi Petersen Hodgson N/A Fiona Beals Wellington Davy Walters Wellington Jessica Hedge Wellington Nikki Hurst Wellington Amanda Murray Canterbury Kerryn Carson Auckland Lee Huggins Wellington Charmaine Tuhaka Hawke's Bay Alana Goldsack Otago Juliet Leeming Wellington Josephine Maireroa Auckland Mat Badger Wellington Maleina Gray Canterbury Emma Peek Canterbury Rhiannon Gibbs Auckland Joanna Scott Waikato Siaosi Ulugia Auckland Sharon Davis N/A Paul Thompson Wellington Cheryl Campbell Otago Henio Koloi Wellington Maxine Sweeney N/A Laura Hatwell Wellington Georgia Faofua Auckland Jo Sherwood Canterbury Vincent Nathan Northland Chillion Sanerivi Auckland Lauren Thorley Wellington Richard Chambers Canterbury Briarley Birch Northland Miranda Palmer Auckland Jacob Gerken Southland Lorna Gray Wellington Eleanor Pōtaka Auckland Chloe Bisley-Wright Wellington Lauren Matapo Taranaki Sarah Finlay-Robinson Auckland Steph Brook Auckland Tess Parker N/A Hariata Makiha Auckland Shane Ah-You Auckland Amber Hearn Auckland Jeanne O'Brien Manawatu-Whanganui Rob Luisi Auckland Brian Johnson Canterbury Joanne Nowak Wellington Tania Liuagamatagi Auckland Samuel Hansen N/A Keith Robertson Waikato Shannon Clarke Waikato Lisa Hann Wellington William Mark-Brown Auckland Imogen Stone Auckland Abigail Clark Wellington Victoria Carson N/A Emma Drake N/A Jelena Ahokava N/A Abraham Kunin Auckland Matthew Rongo Auckland Shannan Wong Wellington Emily Skogstad Wellington Kelli Bennett Auckland Annie Phillipson Overseas Kahu Ritchie Wellington Dylan Perfect-Tait Waikato Helen Perkins Auckland Vicki Hawkins Auckland Diane Jerry Southland Del Crummer Auckland Matt Grey Auckland Debbie Houston-Tupou Wellington Tayla Taylor Canterbury Lloyd Martin Hawke's Bay Brittany Webber Auckland Raelene Hoogeveen Waikato Saskia Walsh Nelson-Tasman Emelita Luisi Auckland Grace Gillard Wellington Richard Bell Wellington Cherrill Rave Auckland Isabel Lemanutau Wellington Akenehe Pereira Wellington Rod Baxter Wellington Adam John Brown-Rigg Auckland Joanah Phillips Taranaki Jade Eru Wellington Beth Gibbes Auckland Soni Kula Marlborough Rosie Whaitiri Manawatu-Whanganui Jo Lane Marlborough Reagan Kupa Waikato Chris Martin Canterbury Stewart Irwin Wellington Karen Howieson Nelson-Tasman Lisa Gatward Auckland Morgan Goodwin Auckland Lizzie Pringle Wellington Heather Blissett Wellington Briana Fleming Wellington Trystan Swain Canterbury Chris Efford West Coast Trey Subritzky Northland Wendy Savieti N/A Henry Pouniu Auckland Wesley Finau Wellington Kaitlin Kirk Wellington