Te Hiku Pātaka

 

Te Hiku Pātaka was established by Te Kahu Oranga Whānau in Kataia in June 2022, as the storehouse of the Far North – a place where whānau can choose from a large range of kai and supplies, similar to collecting kai from their pātaka or the experience of shopping in a supermarket.

Te Kahu Oranga Whānau is a collaboration of Te Whare Ruruhau o Meri, Waitomo Papakāinga, Tuhiata Mahiora and Te Rarawa. Te Kahu Oranga Whānau is likened to ‘the cloak of whānau livelihood’. They collectively provide tautoko, aroha and awhi to whānau throughout Te Hiku o te Ika (Far North) through to Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland). The Pātaka addresses kai and wai sovereignty, which has been a longstanding issue for many of the whānau they support.

The Pātaka is a place where whānau experience manaaki - being served and supported with dignity, respect and aroha. They have the freedom of choice, in a place that feels, looks and sounds like it is for them - bilingual signage, Māori music, run by their own whānau and community.

While based in Kaitaia, Te Hiku Pātaka is open to whanau throughout Te Hiku o te Ika. This includes whānau currently being supported by Te Kahu Oranga Whānau, and those who are supported or referred by other social service agencies. Shoppers are hosted and supported by their kaimahi - store assistant, with kaiārahi on hand to connect them with additional wraparound support if needed. For more information, check out their website or Facebook page and if you’d like to support the great work they’re doing, you can do so by pressing the button below.