Rotorua – Who we are:
With your help, Graeme Dingle Foundation Rotorua supports 1,500 tamariki and rangatahi, across four schools in Rotorua every week. Our purpose is to strengthen the Rotorua community by supporting children and young people to be resilient, have self-belief and fulfil their potential.
We currently run two programmes:
- Kiwi Can Kiwi Kaha in Horohoro Kura, Mamaku School and Glenholme School
- Stars Teina Ngā Whetū in Rotorua Intermediate School
Kaimahi (Our Staff)
Pūtahi Heretaunga-Renata – Kiwi Kaha Programme Coordinator (Kiwi Can)
My name is Pūtahi Heretaunga-Renata, and I am of Māori descent, proudly connected to Te Arawa and Ngāti Tūwharetoa iwi. Fluent in both English and Māori, I am deeply immersed in Tikanga and Kawa, fostering a strong commitment to cultural values. With a passion for sports, quality time with whānau, and outdoor pursuits, I prioritise personal well-being while nurturing meaningful relationships. Guided by respect, resilience, integrity, and positive connections, I strive to empower and support those around me, embodying the whakatauki: 'Poipoia te kākano kia pūāwai'—nurture the seed so it will blossom.
Kayla Shand – Kiwi Kaha Facilitator (Kiwi Can)
"Kia Ora, ko Kayla Shand tōku ingoa”. I am super excited to be part of the Graeme Dingle Foundation whānau. I have a strong passion to work with tamariki, this has come from my mahi as an Afterschool Facilitator. “Connecting and developing a relationship with ākonga as part of the Kiwi Can programme will provide me the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of rangatahi and tamariki across the Rotorua rohe”
Josh Te Rore – Ngā Whetu Programme Coordinator (Stars Teina)
Ko Matawhaura te maunga, Ko te Arawa te waka, Ko te Arawa te iwi, Ko Ngāti Tamateatutahi me Ngāti kawiti ngā hapū, Ko Josh Te Rore taku ingoa. Josh has an extensive knowledge working in health, fitness and wellness, adept at coaching and guiding people with varying abilities to achieve their goals. As a committed and experienced coaching professional, Josh believes “it is not only an honour but a taonga, to be given the opportunity to inspire rangatahi and tamariki to reach their full potential and I get to do this on my own papakāinga” In his spare time, Josh enjoys hanging out with whānau, listening to music staying fit and healthy while looking after his body, both mentally and spiritually. “It is laughter and play that connects us to the world and the people around us” Josh is excited about bringing this quote to life in Rotorua Schools, as the new Programme Coordinator, Stars Teina.
Jasmaine Worthington - Ngā Whetu Programme Facilitator (Stars Teina)
He uri āu o Ngāti Paoa raua ko Ngā Puhi. Ko Jasmaine Worthington tāku ingoa. A passionate youth ambassador for Life Charitable Trust with 3 years’ experience in mentoring and supporting rangatahi with mental wellness, depression, and suicide. Jasmaine was a recipient of Rotorua Young Achiever award for leadership and service to community. She is excited about returning to the workforce and prides herself in making a positive impact in people’s lives. Jasmaine is a mother to Dakoda and in her spare time she likes to travel and spend time with whānau. She believes everyone should ‘Take everyday as a new opportunity, to learn, grow and gain something new.