RANGATAHI RANGATIRA

Empowering Our Youth

Rangatahi Rangatira is a welcoming space where young people of all abilities come together to gain practical skills, build confidence, and prepare for future employment. Meeting three times a week, we create opportunities for hands-on learning, personal growth, and skill development that help rangatahi step into the workforce with readiness and self-assurance. Through engaging activities and workshops, members build workplace confidence, develop essential skills like communication and teamwork, and explore real-world experiences that support future job opportunities.

Beyond employment readiness, Rangatahi Rangatira fosters social connection, creativity, and friendships in a supportive environment. Whether it’s developing life skills like cooking and problem-solving, exploring new interests, or simply sharing laughs with friends, every experience helps build independence and a sense of belonging.

We believe that everyone has something valuable to offer, and often, we achieve more than we ever thought possible. Here, every voice matters, every effort is celebrated, and together, we break barriers and redefine what’s possible. Rangatahi Rangatira is more than just a social group—it’s a place where strengths are discovered, contributions are recognized, and friendships thrive in an environment of support and empowerment.

At Rangatahi Rangatira, we believe in preparing for the future by developing practical skills through fun and engaging challenges. Over three days each week—around 12 hours in total—we take on themed activities designed to build essential abilities for both employment and everyday life. Whether it’s following instructions, improving dexterity, enhancing memory retention, or strengthening problem-solving skills, each challenge helps rangatahi gain the confidence and adaptability needed for the workforce.

These activities also encourage focus and patience, foster teamwork and communication, and develop resilience when things don’t go as planned. They teach us to adapt, think creatively, and recognize our own strengths. While some tasks may seem simple at first, they can be complex for those who are neurodiverse—so we ensure they are fun, engaging, and rewarding for everyone.

At Rangatahi Rangatira, every challenge is a step toward independence, growth, and the realization that everyone has something valuable to contribute—not just in our group, but in the wider world.

We offer a variety of engaging activities designed to foster learning, creativity, and personal growth. Each week, members can take part in different experiences that promote confidence and skill development.

These activities include:

Health & Wellness:

  • Pedicures for foot health
  • Going to the gym or swimming
  • Walking dogs
  • Gardening

Creative & Practical Skills:

  • Turning vegetables into pickles
  • Arts and crafts
  • Cooking
  • Designing and creating tech tools like personalized calendars

Outdoor Adventures & Recreation:

  • Basketball games and attending games
  • Camps and BBQs
  • Horse riding

Tech & Education:

  • Basic computer skills
  • Learning to use a smartphone or tablet
  • Simple budgeting and money management

How It Works:

At Rangatahi Rangatira, we aim to provide a structured and supportive environment where everyone can grow and thrive. Here’s how it works:

  • Transport: Attendees are provided with transport each day, ensuring they can easily get to and from the group’s activities.
  • Engagement & Contribution: We encourage everyone to engage and contribute to the group, fostering a sense of belonging and responsibility. Active participation in all activities is key to making the most of the experience.
  • Food: Nutritious meals and snacks are provided throughout the day to keep everyone nourished and ready to participate.
  • Calendar: To help our members stay organized and know what to expect, we provide a calendar each term, outlining upcoming activities, events, and special projects.
  • Term Structure: Our year is divided into four terms, following the school system, with breaks during school holidays to allow for downtime and rest. This ensures a consistent rhythm while giving everyone time to recharge.

This simple yet structured approach ensures that everyone is supported and has clear expectations, allowing them to focus on developing their skills and making meaningful connections.