Easter Aroha – Hawkes Bay

Time

  • 1:00 pm

Date

  • 17/04/2025

Organiser

  • VOYCE

Location

  • Hawkes Bay

This Easter, the VOYCE – Whakarongo Mai team in Hawke’s Bay had the privilege of delivering something truly special to tamariki and rangatahi in care – thanks to the incredible generosity of our community partners, Rotary Havelock North and Re-Source.

With the help of their koha, our team was able to distribute 90 Easter packs to care-experienced tamariki and rangatahi of all ages, with a focus on those living in group whare (group homes). These beautifully curated packs brought joy, a sense of connection, and a touch of Easter magic to young people who often experience celebration days a little differently.

The packs had so many goodies: colouring in, word searches, DIY bunny ears, cookies to decorate, recipes, chocolate eggs, toys and so much more!

The response was heartwarming – tamariki greeted our team with hugs, high fives, and big smiles, showing just how much the gesture meant. Each Easter pack was gifted with aroha, and the warmth of those moments reflected the power of community in making a difference.

To our partners and supporters: thank you for helping us bring brightness and joy to some truly special young people. This act of kindness reminded us all that even the smallest gift, given with aroha, can have a big impact.

Promise Three: Learning

Education as a gateway to dreams, rangatahi are supported to achieve aspirations.

Promise One: Care

Every tamaiti receives nurturing, protection, and provision, as any good parent would offer.

Promise Five: Voice

Tamariki and rangatahi are involved in decisions that affect them, and their voices are honoured.

Promise Four: Wellbeing

Timely, accessible, and culturally conscious health and mental health services are available to all taiohi.

Promise Two: Stability

Young people in care experience consistency, safety, and a sense of belonging.

Whānau care is where a child is being raised by someone in their whānau or extended family. Often it means a child living with their grandparents – but could also be another family member like an aunt, uncle or older sibling. Whāngai is the traditional Māori practice of whānau care.