Pūrerehua Transformation is a whānau-centered service grounded in kaupapa Māori practice, created to provide comprehensive support for whānau as they work toward achieving meaningful goals.
Pūrerehua offers personalised, holistic support that looks at every layer of whānau wellbeing from housing, health, and relationships, to purpose, confidence, and the wellbeing of tamariki. The journey is not one-size-fits-all. Every whānau brings their own goals, challenges, and strengths. Pūrerehua provides practical tools, consistent support, and guidance to help whānau move from surviving to thriving.
Martina, one of the kaimahi behind the programme, is a mother of three who began her professional life in the fitness world. Over time, she felt called to support others in mental health and wellbeing. Her connection to Pūrerehua is both professional and personal. Her Taua and Uncle Roy were among those who helped lay the foundations of Ngā Kete, and being part of the organisation now feels like coming full circle.
“It’s an honour to be part of this kaupapa. My role allows me to connect with whānau and see their mauri ignite when they realise they have the power to create real change in their lives.”
For Charity, also a mother of two and a lifelong Murihiku local, working alongside whānau has been both inspiring and humbling. She speaks about the joy of seeing whānau move past self-doubt and begin to believe in their ability to succeed. One of her most rewarding experiences was supporting a whānau who went on to start their own successful business. They did the mahi themselves, but Pūrerehua walked alongside them until they were confident standing strong on their own.
Scott, one of the newer kaimahi within Pūrerehua, brings a diverse background and a strong foundation in social work. Originally from Nelson, Scott recently completed his Bachelor of Social Work and has experience in hospitality management, sales, and supporting rangatahi in a youth house. These varied roles shape how he connects with whānau from all walks of life.
What drew Scott to Pūrerehua was the kaupapa and the way the programme is delivered. Built on the Te Whare Tapa Whā framework, Pūrerehua aligns with his desire to work holistically and in partnership with whānau over time. “This depth of engagement is where trust is built,” he says, “and where sustainable change really happens.”
Pūrerehua is guided by the Poutama model, a three-stage framework that reflects growth and forward movement: Kākano, Tipuranga, and Te Puawaitanga.
In the Kākano stage, whānau begin by identifying clear, achievable goals and building belief that positive change is possible. Big goals are broken into manageable steps, helping whānau see that progress is realistic and within reach. This stage may begin with simple but powerful statements such as, “I forgive… I believe… I hope… I am working toward…” Whānau create vision boards, set goals using the Te Whare Tapa Whā model, and begin taking practical first steps.
In the Tipuranga stage, growth becomes more visible. Whānau refine their goals, develop new skills, and begin to change long-standing patterns. For some, this might mean establishing a home garden to support wellbeing and kai; for others, returning to study or re-entering the workforce. Progress is regularly reviewed, with goals adjusted as circumstances change. Scott describes this as the stage where small, consistent wins build confidence and momentum.
Te Puawaitanga is the stage of flourishing. Outcomes are tangible: greater stability, improved wellbeing, stronger relationships, and increased confidence. Martina recalls one whānau of five who had been struggling with housing and employment. Through the programme, both parents gained stable work, their home environment improved, and their tamariki began thriving at school. This stage focuses on ensuring whānau have the skills, resilience, and confidence to continue achieving their goals beyond the programme.
At the heart of Pūrerehua are strong, mana-enhancing relationships between kaimahi and whānau, and within whānau themselves. Martina describes meeting people where they are and creating safe, non-judgemental spaces for growth. Charity agrees: “Everyone is different. We listen. We sit down, have a kōrero, and set goals together. That’s where the magic starts.” Scott adds that this approach supports whānau to recognise their strengths, learn from the past, and focus on the future they want to build.
Support can include finding safe housing, improving financial stability, strengthening connections, or simply having someone walk alongside you, as one whānau experienced when they visited the beach, reconnecting spiritually while exploring future career options in horticulture.
Tamariki are always central to the mahi. “When parents are supported, less stressed, and working toward positive goals, tamariki feel it too,” says Charity. She has seen children move from refusing school to full attendance, increased independence, and stronger connections with their whānau. Scott notes that empowering whānau as a whole creates outcomes that last well beyond the programme.
Every step forward is valued. Setbacks and detours are expected, and kaimahi continue to walk alongside whānau, holding space while maintaining a focus on progress and achievable outcomes.
Looking ahead, Martina, Charity, and Scott share a clear goal: to see the Pūrerehua model expanded across Aotearoa so that more whānau can access this support. They believe the positive impacts extend beyond individual homes, strengthening communities and future generations.
If you or someone you know is seeking holistic, whānau-centred support and is ready to work toward positive change, Pūrerehua is here to walk alongside you.
Call 0800 925 242 to find out more or make a referral.
