Our Stories & Kōrero

On the steps of Parliament, something remarkable happened. For the first time ever, Ngā Rangatira Mō Āpōpō took their kōrero to Parliament, shared their lived experiences and presented bold youth-led solutions to improve outcomes for tamariki with a parent in prison. They called for a new role, the Kaiwhatu Kura Whānau Navigator to help families navigate the criminal District Court. With powerful stories and unwavering mana, they planted seeds of change for generations to com

When a parent goes to prison, there is no dedicated role to support the children left behind. But through their vision, Ngā Rangatira Mō Āpōpō is reshaping what whānau support looks like in the justice system. Through the lived experience and advocacy of Ngā Rangatira Mō Āpōpō, we are calling for a bold and compassionate solution.

The justice system is complex and can be overwhelming for children with a parent in prison. That’s why Ngā Rangatira Mō Āpōpō (Youth Advisory Panel) are calling for change. Their vision? Kaiwhatu Kura Whānau: a dedicated role in the criminal courts to guide, support, and uplift tamariki through the system. Read our full kōrero to understand this role and why it is so impactful for future tamariki.

From sharing their lived experience to standing on Aotearoa’s biggest media stage, the rangatahi of Ngā Rangatira Mō Āpōpō were honoured in the most powerful way. When Indira Stewart won Best Current Affairs for the ‘Children of Prisoners’ documentary, she asked the rangatahi to accept the award on her behalf. What happened next moved a room of media leaders (and us) deeply. Read the full story of this unforgettable moment!

We know becoming a mentor can feel like a big step, but you don’t have to have all the answers. Mentoring is a deeply rewarding experience, full of fun and connection. From the moment you sign up through to your weekly hangouts, you’ll have a strong support system at every step.