Te Tauraki has selected the providers that will deliver Whānau Ora Kaitūwhana services across Te Waipounamu from 1 January 2026.
Following a comprehensive Request for Proposals (RFP) process, 26 organisations have been selected to deliver 97 Kaitūwhana roles strategically placed across the region to support whānau.
“We’re directing our resources to ensure maximum impact for whānau across Te Waipounamu,” says Taone O’Regan, Head of Funding, Monitoring and Performance.
The allocation model, which is guided by Te Puni Kōkiri, accounts for Māori population distribution and multiple indices of social deprivation. It enables Te Tauraki and Whānau Ora service providers to focus their mahi where it will make a significant difference.
What this means for whānau
“Whānau remain at the centre of everything we do,” says Taone.
“For those currently engaged with Whānau Ora services, we will endeavour to make the transition smooth.”
About Whānau Ora Kaitūwhana services
Kaitūwhana (Navigators) work alongside whānau to help them identify their goals and navigate pathways to wellbeing. They connect whānau with the services, support, and resources that strengthen their wellbeing and help achieve outcomes that matter to them.
How providers were selected
Service providers were selected through a rigorous RFP process led by independent procurement specialists.
- 56 proposals were received from organisations across Te Waipounamu
- 97 Kaitūwhana positions were available
- Independent evaluation against clear criteria including capability, sustainability, data management, health and safety, and service quality
- 26 organisations were selected based on their ability to deliver quality services for whānau
Together with the provider network, Te Tauraki will continue to strengthen Whānau Ora across Te Waipounamu, ensuring whānau have access to the right support, in the right place, at the right time.