Porirua, New Zealand – Piri’anga Alofa Pacific and Community Services hosted a vibrant morning tea this week at the Whānau Manaaki Porirua office, bringing together key community partners, supporters, and leaders to strengthen ties and celebrate collaboration.

Among the distinguished guests were Mana MP and Labour Finance spokesperson Hon. Barbara Edmonds, Te Rūnanga o Toa Rangatira chief executive Helmut Modlik, and Porirua Deputy Mayor Kylie Wihapi. Representatives from a wide range of organisations also attended, including the Ministry of Social Development, Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, Kāinga Ora, Ministry for Pacific Peoples, Central Pacific Collective, Southcoast Construction, Whitireia/WelTec Polytechnic, Partners Porirua, and members of the local business community.

The event served not only as a platform to acknowledge the invaluable support of these partners but also to officially welcome Joshua Saua (pictured left) as the new Operations Manager for the Le Fale Jobs and Skills Hub. Since opening in September 2022, Le Fale has been committed to creating real pathways for Pacific and Porirua communities into employment, training, and leadership.

“This gathering was more than an introduction,” organisers shared. “It was a time to talanoa, reflect, and honour the relationships that have shaped Le Fale’s success. Our shared commitment to opportunity, partnership, and trust continues to guide our journey.”

 

A special acknowledgment was given to the Project Steering Group (PSG), whose ongoing support and leadership have been critical to Le Fale’s establishment and growth:

• Gagau Annandale-Stone – Ministry of Social Development

• Andrew McNaught – Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment

• William Pennington – Kāinga Ora (Chairperson of the PSG)

• Simon Allison – Porirua City Council

“Fa’afetai tele lava for your continued support — our journey forward is stronger because of you” said the team at Le Fale.