18/07/2025
More locally-led goodness 😍 Kāpiti Coast District Council
TE HAEMATA – A SPACE FOR RANGATAHI
Tucked away at 84b Mill Road in Ōtaki (next to Sunlong), Te Haemata is fast becoming one of the most important spaces for rangatahi in the community. It’s a vibrant, welcoming after-school space where being yourself is not only accepted, but celebrated.Since opening in November 2023, Te Haemata (a component of Te Puna Oranga o Ōtaki) has been supporting Ōtaki rangatahi aged 13-18 with a space they can call their own – and it’s a busy space. In its first year 1896 rangatahi drop-ins were recorded, which clearly demonstrated the need.Rona, a youth worker at Te Haemata who is also a rangatahi herself, knows exactly how important the space is. “Rangatahi have been seen out on the streets in unsafe situations after school in Ōtaki, so Te Haemata gives a safe place to make their own and be safe with friends after school hours,” she says.With snacks, PlayStation, wifi, a basketball hoop, ping pong table, beauty station, music gear, boxing equipment, creative arts, and even free donated clothing, Te Haemata offers a warm, rangatahi-driven vibe. Whether you’re in for a game, to chill with mates, or to try something new, there’s always something happening.Open 3-5pm Monday to Thursday, Te Haemata fills a crucial time of day – right after school when many rangatahi might be thinking they’re bored.“It’s that after-kura time where a lot of us are just wandering or looking for something to do until Mum or Dad are home from work” Rona says. “Having a place like this, where you’re welcome, fed, feel looked after and happy is actually massive.”The impact is being felt beyond the walls of Te Haemata. Te Puna Oranga o Ōtaki chief executive Heniti Buick says the idea for Te Haemata came about after a community survey – Tirohia – requesting spaces specifically for Ōtaki’s youth. There were also conversations with local police and community members. “We were hearing more and more about rangatahi being in that grey zone, not quite in trouble, but heading there,” Heniti says. “The police described it as ‘staying on the fence’. We wanted to create a space that helped rangatahi stay connected, and better yet, thrive.”The partnership with Kāpiti Coast District Council (KCDC) has been critical in establishing the space. “It’s been very positive,” Heniti says. “While Te Haemata is currently funded as a pilot programme, we are actively advocating for council to ensure this becomes a sustainable venture for our diverse rangatahi groups.”Beyond the gear and good vibes, the secret to Te Haemata’s success lies in its people. The staff , many of whom are rangatahi themselves, bring good vibes, relatability and belief in the potential of their peers, or teina.“We use a strength-based approach,” Heniti says. “We’re not here to fix young people , we’re here to walk alongside them, remind them of their worth, and help them step into their full potential. “When rangatahi feel seen, respected and safe, they show up differently. That’s the real power of this space.”Te Haemata also runs pop-ups across Ōtaki and in local schools, making sure the kaupapa reaches beyond four walls, strengthens trust and relationships and also endeavours to remain relevant to rangatahi. Ashleigh Manga, the manager of youth services for Te Puna Oranga o Ōtaki, plays a vital role in keeping all options open and leading her youth worker team.As Ōtaki faces the complex challenges of a growing town, spaces like Te Haemata are becoming more than just nice-to-haves, they’re essential.“It’s just good to have a place that’s for us,” Rona says. And judging by the growing numbers and smiling faces, she’s not alone.
Photo: Outside Te Haemata are, back row from left, Nikauri Wawatai, Kawiti Pumipi, Wairere Wirihana, and Tahana Wilson. Front row from left, Noni Taleta, Reremoana Rurehe-Ruri, Te Rangi Tamara-Tuirirangi, and Heriata Rurehe.
