Te Puni Kōkiri is well-positioned to lead the development of the next stage of implementation for Whānau Ora, says Chief Executive Michelle Hippolite.

Mrs Hippolite was commenting after the announcement today by the Minister for Whānau Ora Tariana Turia of significant changes to the future scope and direction for Whānau Ora.

“We have constructive working relationships with all the other agencies involved in Whānau Ora and am confident we will all work well together for an effective transition to the new ‘NGO commissioning for results’ model,” Mrs Hippolite says.

Minister Turia earlier said the Government has agreed to the establishment of three NGO commissioning agencies with expertise and networks to build capability:
 

• for whānau and families with a North island focus
• for whānau and families with a South Island focus
• for Pacific families.

Through the new model, suitable NGOs will be contracted to commission local-level whānau-centred initiatives through a range of entities and services or opportunities being made available to all New Zealand families.

Te Puni Kōkiri will lead development of the change project plan, lead the NGO procurement process, and align its work to continue as the administering department for Whānau Ora.

Mrs Hippolite says she’s pleased government has affirmed its confidence in her organisation to continue playing a leading role in Whānau Ora.

“I am mindful that my staff, especially those engaged in Whānau Ora, will be seeking to understand the impact of these developments. Through the first eight months of my time as Chief Executive I have engaged with and consulted with staff and welcome their questions as we work through the policy and operational changes.

“As we work through this process, I hope they will appreciate as I do, that it is through their commitment to innovation and to wellbeing for whānau Māori that Whānau Ora can move to another phase of implementation,” Mrs Hippolite says.

CONTACT: Ta’i George, Communications Account Manager 0274950296