Meet the Whaanau

Colleen Smith

Colleen Smith

Pastoral Care - Wellbeing Advisor

Ko Takaka te whenua tupu
No Golden Bay ahau
Kei te noho ana ahau ki Tamaki Makaurau inainei
Ko Emma Wehipeihana taku tamahine
Ko Nico taku mokopuna
No Tukorehe me Ngati Porou raua
Ko Colleen Smith taku ingoa

As the Pastoral Care Lead for Te Pu-a-Nga Maara, I am devoted to nurturing our community with empathy, respect, and a deep commitment to social and environmental justice. My extensive experience in government and non-government organisations has fuelled my passion for transforming systems to uplift te taiao and nga tangata. Since joining Te Pu-a-Nga Maara in 2016, I’ve been guided by our Kaupapa, honouring our trailblazers, uplifting our kaimahi and supporters, and advocating for our mokos mokopuna.  

My Certified ToP Facilitator qualification empowers me to foster inclusive spaces where every voice matters. Through ToP’s Focused Conversation and Consensus Workshop methods, I guide reflective dialogues and collaborative decision-making, building trust and unity in pastoral care. These skills help me navigate community challenges, ensuring outcomes reflect our shared values.