Toitū Te Whānau - Collaboration on local wellbeing

An innovative approach has been developed for Iwi, Hapū, the council and government agencies to work together to put whānau wellbeing at the centre of decision-making. This approach would be steered by a trust called Toitū Te Whānau.  

The partnership is designed so that local solutions can be found for local community needs and issues. Currently, each agency works on their own to make a difference, but by working together through the trust, we can be stronger and more effective for current and future generations. 

The Toitū te Whānau framework is a Whānau or family-centred approach to improve the wellbeing of Whānau, Hapū and the Whanganui hāpori (community) – this means the wellbeing of all families.  

Focusing on social and economic wellbeing, the Trust will work with agencies and groups to develop a strategic plan that reflects Ngā Mātāpono (the values) and to meet the outcomes needed to benefit the whole community.  

What is the council being asked to do? 

The council is being asked to approve the establishment of Toitū Te Whānau charitable trust. This approach to leading and facilitating the social wellbeing direction for Whanganui Whānau, Hapū and the Whanganui community through collaboration and partnerships is innovative and unique.   

It reflects the desire of the council and Whanganui Hapū and Iwi to be imaginative in tackling the challenges facing Whānau in Whanganui.   

Financial costs 

In the immediate term, the council, Iwi and Crown agencies will meet their own costs. The Whanganui Land Settlement Negotiations Trust will contribute to the costs of establishing the Trust. Going forward, there will be operational costs for a secretariat but these are yet to be determined. 

Trust structure  

The Trust will be the mechanism that guides and drives the Toitū Te Whānau social framework. Crown agency relationship agreements will be set up through settlement with the board existing to bring the partners together. The Trust would have shared leadership with three members from Hapū/Iwi, two from the council, one from Takapau Whariki, and one from the wider community.