Voices from our community - Testimonials
Voices from our community
He aha te mea nui o te ao?
He tangata, he tangata, he tangata.
What is the most important thing in the world?
It is people, it is people, it is people.
At Te Whenua Moemoea, people are at the heart of everything we do.
Guided by the principle, "He tangata, he tangata, he tangata," we believe lasting change begins when people feel seen, heard and valued. Every programme we deliver is shaped by compassion, accountability and tikanga Māori, integrating evidence-based practice with cultural knowledge to support meaningful, lasting outcomes.
We are privileged to walk alongside young people, families, communities and services as they strengthen identity, wellbeing and hope for the future.
The reflections below have been shared by those who have experienced our work firsthand. We are grateful for their trust and honoured to have been part of their journey.
Terina’s contribution had a meaningful impact on our young people, strengthening culturally safe engagement and enhancing the quality of support provided to them. She consistently demonstrated reliability and a collaborative approach. I highly recommend Terina as a cultural mentor.”
Brittany P. Psychologist, Youth Justice
“She is a taonga in the work of empowering rangatahi and supporting them to reach their full potential.”
Regan A. Cultural Practice Officer, Youth Justice
"Throughout her work with my student, there was a significant increase in confidence, engagement, and interest in learning about her culture. Most notably, the student began to show a sense of hope and self-direction that had not been present before. As a result of this, there was a clear flow-on effect, with the student also developing more positive social relationships with those around her.
I would have no hesitation in recommending Terina’s services and strongly believe any young person would benefit enormously from working with her'.
Leila H. Teacher
Terina has been such an empowering source of energy in my life. Her lived experience, education, faith and unique gifts have given her an incredible depth of insight that has been truly life-changing for me. I love her authenticity and courage, and the way she creates space for people to see themselves differently, recognise their own strength and possibilities, and move through life with greater clarity and confidence.
Leilani, MNZM
Terina has transformed the lives of children, young people and there families at Emerton Youth Recreation Centre. She has given cultural strength to us all through her love and knowledge of the Maori culture. Terina has taught hundreds of children and now extending to our families through our Mana program. At Emerton Youth Recreation Centre we are so grateful to have Terina as a tutor for Mana and a facilitator for Cultural Lego. Terina has a warmth and grace about her. Highly respected and a strong woman who we all regard Highly. Thank you for all you do for us all Terina.
Tele. T Emerton Recreation Youth Centre Manager
Terina is a great Māori teacher for our dear children in Mana, very passionate about her culture and willing to pass it on to the kids. Loved her beautiful voice and her heart for our community and so blessed to have her in our lives. God bless your work sister for our families and community
Sosefina. L - Mana Samoan Tutor