Te Pae Oranga (Iwi Community Panels) offers an alternative resolution process for offenders (participants), focusing on education, prevention, and accountability. Operated by Ngā Kete Mātauranga Pounamu Charitable Trust in partnership with the Police, iwi, and local communities, the panels help participants create plans to repair harm and prevent reoffending. The service prioritizes rehabilitation by understanding the whole person, not just the offence, and fosters positive change through community engagement and trust-building. TPO is a powerful example of how collaboration can drive meaningful change.
Jess McDermott, Manager of Ngā Kete Specialist Facilitation Service, and Justine Bishop, Police Sergeant, discuss the collaboration between Ngā Kete and Police in the development of Te Pae Oranga and its growth since its inception in 2017.
Justine describes the Te Pae Oranga approach as going beyond traditional policing. "Rather than focusing solely on the crime, we look at the individual - their circumstances, their whānau, and their community. This holistic perspective enables us to collaborate in preventing reoffending," she explains.
This shift in perspective is at the heart of TPO. Unlike the punitive nature of the court system, which focuses on the offense and its consequences, TPO’s collaborative process aims to address the root causes of participants' actions. Police, facilitators, iwi and local communities come together to explore these underlying factors in a supportive environment, working together to create lasting change.
One of the most powerful aspects of TPO is its ability to deliver tangible, meaningful outcomes. Jess emphasizes preparation and support: "Before the panel, our facilitators work closely with participants to help them succeed. We see people complete defensive driving courses, pay reparations, and address real issues before the panel even takes place."
"I’ve seen participants take real responsibility for their actions, and it’s incredible," says Justine. "You can’t always see the full impact in the moment, but when participants leave feeling lighter and with a clear plan, that’s rewarding."
The process also supports victims. In many cases, victims' voices are heard, allowing them to express their feelings and receive apologies, fostering healing and closure.
The success of TPO is driven not just by its outcomes but also by the strength of collaboration. Trust is fundamental to the process. Justine describes the relationship between the Police and Nga Kete as "tight" and "fluid." "We all understand the mahi, we’re aligned, and we know each other’s needs throughout the process. That trust allows us to be adaptable and work together to achieve the best results."
Jess also values this close collaboration. "There’s so much trust here. It’s not just about the formalities; it’s about being yourself and being open," she says. "That’s what makes the process work - people feel heard, respected, and supported."
TPO’s strength also comes from its network of community support, with Ngā Kete serving as a one-stop shop. Justine explains, "If the right support isn’t available immediately, we know how to access it. We collaborate with local services to ensure participants receive everything they need."
Justine highlights that NKMP is recognised as one of the leading TPO providers across the country, particularly for the breadth and depth of services available in house and the strong collaboration between the police team and the NKMP team. 'We have a partnership that others admire, and we’re constantly seeking new ways to innovate and improve.”
Reflecting on her time with TPO, Justine sums up her motivation: "It’s been five years since I stepped into this role, and it’s been the most fulfilling part of my 27-year police career. I can see the real changes we’re making. It’s about giving people a chance to set things right before they go down the path to court or jail."
Looking ahead, Jess hopes to see more referrals and even the possibility of adding another panel or late-panel option. Justine would like judges to refer more participants directly to TPO. "The judges are supportive, but it’s about finding the right process for them to do so."
As the service continues to grow, TPO’s success will be measured by the lives it transforms. The stories of participants, like Kelly Luke, who changed her life through TPO, show the services’ potential. Kelly was referred after being caught with marijuana. Initially nervous about the process, she soon found comfort. "The panel was understanding and helped me see the impact of my actions. It wasn’t just about punishment—it was about healing. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to be heard and to make amends. It’s changed me."
Other stories highlight the impact of TPO. One participant, who caused a car crash and feared the court process, found relief in TPO. With guidance from the facilitator, they avoided a conviction and received support for personal challenges, including caring for a loved one with cancer.
A victim also attended the TPO panel and in reflection said, "The panel gave me the chance to share my story, receive an apology, and have my broken glasses reimbursed. It left me feeling supported and at peace, free from anger or anxiety."
Te Pae Oranga continues to grow, building on its successes and the trust it has cultivated in the community. As the service evolves, its mission remains clear: to help participants take responsibility, receive support, and heal - ultimately creating safer, stronger communities for everyone.
