Kaiaarahi service

Kaiaarahi support 

At Kanorau, we have a dedicated Kaiaarahi who works one on one with whaanau, guiding them through the often complex and emotional journey of navigating takiwaatanga.  This holistic support is designed not only to empower whaanau with the knowledge and tools they need but also to offer emotional reassurance, knowing they are not alone in the journey.

Ultimately, the role of the Kaiaarahi is about ensuring that whaanau feel understood, respected, and empowered as they work through the diagnosis and beyond, helping to create a pathway that is as smooth and supportive as possible.

The Kaiaarahi can help with…

  • Navigation

    Not sure what support and services are available in your region? The Kaiaarahi serves as a bridge between whānau and healthcare, education, and social services and provide a safe space where whānau can ask questions, express concerns, and feel supported as they navigate what can sometimes be a confusing and challenging process.

  • Whaanau support

    Feeling isolated and alone? The Kaiaarahi understands the challenges of this journey through lived experience and is here to offer whaanau support every step of the way, providing guidance, sharing information about takiwaatanga, and sharing practical strategies to help navigate this journey with confidence.

  • Advocacy

    Feeling overwhelmed by the constant need to advocate for your taonga? With a legal and policy background, the Kaiaarahi can support you in championing the aspirations and needs of your taonga and their whānau while also empowering you to find your voice and become a strong self-advocate.

Waikato-Tainui partnership

In partnership with Waikato-Tainui, we are proud to offer Kaiaarahi services to whaanau who whakapapa to Waikato and reside within the Raupatu boundary. Our services provide tailored support for children with takiwaatanga (autism), grounded in a te ao Maaori perspective, to ensure that each child and whaanau receives the best possible care and guidance in a culturally responsive way.

As this is a new venture, we will be accepting a limited number of whaanau into the service. By completing the form below, we’ll gather important details to better understand your needs, your child’s journey, and how we can work together to provide the support you require.

Let’s work together

Fill out the form below and someone from Kanorau will be in touch with you.

FAQs

  • No, there is no cost to access the Kaiārahi. The support provided by the Kaiārahi at Kanorau is free of charge for whānau. We do not want this to be a barrier for whānau to getting the support they need!

  • We are based in Waikato - Hamilton. But we do travel and offer online support nation-wide. Get in touch with us to discuss further.

  • You can access the Kaiārahi’s support by contacting Kanorau directly. We can arrange a meeting or phone call to discuss your specific needs and how we can assist you through your journey. Our team is here to help guide you step by step.

  • No, you don’t need a formal diagnosis to access the Kaiārahi’s support. The Kaiārahi is available to assist whānau at any stage of the process, whether you are in the early stages of seeking a diagnosis or if you are already navigating the steps that follow a diagnosis.

  • Yes, the Kaiārahi can assist in understanding your child’s educational needs and connecting you with educational services or support. At Kanorau we specialise and prioritise working with kura kaupapa Māori and koohanga reo.

  • It is completely normal to feel overwhelmed along the journey, and the Kaiārahi is here to support you through those challenging moments. Whether it’s understanding complex information, managing emotional responses, or navigating the system, the Kaiārahi is available to provide reassurance and practical help. We’re here to walk alongside you, at your pace.

  • The Kaiārahi can act as an advocate and intermediary between you and healthcare providers or other services. If you don’t feel comfortable speaking on your behalf, the Kaiārahi can help ensure your concerns are heard and understood, and that you have the support you need to feel confident in your interactions with the system.

  • The Kaiārahi can help guide you through the process of applying for funding and support services. We can provide information on the different types of funding available, assist with the application process, and advocate on your behalf if needed. The aim is to ensure you can access the services and resources that will benefit your child and whānau.

  • At Kanorau, we truly understand the challenges that whānau face when navigating the journey of a diagnosis. This path can often feel overwhelming, filled with uncertainty, and at times, isolating. As parents ourselves who have walked this journey, we can provide support that is genuine and culturally grounded. We can attend meetings alongside you, offer a listening ear, provide advice and information around takiwātanga, and provide emotional support so you do not feel alone. Get in touch with us to discuss your needs.