“The Key To Living Is Giving”

Ko wai tatou

Who Are We

This year, our programmes have empowered whānau across Tāmaki Makaurau with confidence, life skills, and real opportunities. We've supported participants into employment and further study, paving the way for long-term success.

All of our programmes embed work readiness and education pathways, as we understand the importance of helping whānau into the workforce. Our approach is preventive, aiming to equip individuals early with the tools and mindset needed to break cycles of hardship and build independent futures.

Kura Cares

Our Purpose

Our Impact

Manukau City Councillor - Alf Filipaina

Endorsements

‘I wholeheartedly endorse Kura Cares Charity for their unwavering commitment to Takanini and Papakura. Their mission to bridge income gaps and reduce poverty is transformative. O le galuega a Kura Cares e fesoasoani i aiga ma ave’esea le mativa e tāua tele mo tatou nu’u. They are a true beacon of hope, and I encourage everyone to support their incredible work’.

Labour MP - Anahila Kanongata'a

‘I wholeheartedly endorse Kura Cares Charity for their commitment, compassion, and effectiveness in Takanini and Papakura. Their mission to bridge income gaps and reduce poverty is impactful and transformative. As a beacon of hope with innovative approaches, they are a crucial asset to the region, and I encourage support for their noble cause’.

Manurewa Local Board Chairman - Matt Winiata

‘I fully support Kura Cares Charity for their incredible work in Manurewa, Takanini, and Papakura. Their commitment to bridging income gaps and reducing poverty, while creating educational opportunities and fostering community networks, is transformative. Kura Cares is a beacon of hope, making a lasting impact, and I wish them every success in continuing their vital work.’

‘I endorse Kura Cares Charity for their invaluable contributions to the Takanini and Papakura communities. They stand as a beacon of hope with a mission to bridge income gaps and reduce poverty through a holistic approach, addressing the multifaceted nature of poverty with inclusivity and community collaboration. Their results speak volumes, and I urge support for their efforts.

Auckland Chancellor - Daniel Newman

Supporting our Rangatahi

Kura Cares runs the $20 Boss programme, teaching rangatahi budgeting, money skills, and work readiness through real-world business experience.

Positive Pathways supports at-risk boys struggling in school, helping them build confidence, develop essential life and work readiness skills, and create a brighter future.

This year alone, Future Wahine has supported over 40 wāhine, empowering them with confidence, life skills, and work readiness. Some have already secured job opportunities, paving the way for a brighter future.

What’s New With Us

THE 0-BEAST PROGRAM

The O-Beast Program is a free 10-week journey for South Aucklanders over 150kg, providing gym access, nutrition support, and a strong community. We've helped people quit vaping, overcome struggles, and even prevent suicide—creating lasting change.

WHANAU HOTAKA ONLINE PORTAL

To make our programs accessible across Aotearoa, we've launched the Whānau Hotaka Online App! This platform empowers whānau to learn, grow, and take control of their well-being—anytime, anywhere.

Make It

Research And Data reporting 2025

We’re excited to have Impact Labs leading our impact reporting alongside Dr. Dion Enari, who brings his expertise to track, measure, and strengthen the effectiveness of Kura Cares Charity’s programs.

Impact Labs will help us gather meaningful data and evidence of change, while Dr. Enari—a Senior Lecturer at AUT’s School of Sport and Recreation, specializing in Sport Development, Mental Health, and Pacific & Indigenous Studies—will provide further academic insight and evaluation.

Together, their support will enhance our program delivery, strengthen our NZQA and MSD accreditation efforts, and reinforce our commitment to transparency as we work towards another clean audit in 2025. This marks a powerful step forward in driving lasting change for whānau across Aotearoa.

Te pūtake o Kura Cares

Why we started Kura Cares

Born from the crisis of the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown, Kura Cares stepped up as job losses and rising costs hit Māori and Pacific whānau in Papakura hard. As demand surged in 2021, we provided vital support and resources, helping families rebuild through community-driven donations.

Our Programmes

Future Wahine – Mentoring young wāhine (girls)
Positive Pathways – Empowering at-risk young men
$20 Boss – Youth business startup skills
O Beast – Health support for obesity
Whānau Hōtaka – Financial literacy for whānau (Available in person, online and portal)
Community Boot Camps – Free outdoor fitness sessions

Our Heros

Our most recent Audit Financial Report

Financial Performance FY 24/25 :

The information in this report has been summarized from the Financial Statements of the Kura Cares Charity for the year ending 31st March. These were prepared by Accounting for charities. The full Financial Statements are available on request or on the New Zealand Charities Commission website