Te Puna Ariki
Rangatahi voices were at the centre of the February opening of Te Puna Ariki Charitable Trust’s new building, with young leaders sharing what the programme means for them and their peers.
The opening reflected the collective effort behind the new space. Funders, including Geyser Community Foundation, have supported Te Puna Ariki’s journey, while supporters and volunteers have been actively involved in the lead-up to the opening, from laying the floors to painting the walls.
That shared commitment was felt in the room, with a strong sense of pride as the space was officially opened. This moment marked a milestone for everyone who has contributed along the way.
Established in 2025, the Te Puna Ariki Youth Leadership Council brings together rangatahi from a range of backgrounds. One leader described their role clearly, saying:
“We are the face, voice, and ears of our rangatahi.”
The new facility has been developed to support hauora across taha tinana /physical, taha hinengaro /mental and emotional, taha whānau/social, and taha wairua/spiritual wellbeing.
Over the past year, more than 400 rangatahi have participated in Te Puna Ariki programmes. During the opening, attendees saw explosive lifting and movement coaching in action, with the programme also spanning a range of sports including rugby league and jiu jitsu.
Rotorua Trust supported Te Puna Ariki last year through grant funding, alongside other supporters including BayTrust and Sport Bay of Plenty. Te Puna Ariki’s mission is to equip tamariki, rangatahi and uri whakaheke with the confidence, skills and resources to shape their own futures. Rotorua Trust was delighted to attend the opening event and acknowledges the collective effort behind the development of this new space.
Photo: Leanne from Geyser Community Foundation at the opening with rangatahi leaders
