The name Te Awhi Rito comes from the harakeke or flax plant. The ‘Rito’ is the young shoot at the centre of the plant. ‘Awhi Rito’ are the strong, mature leaves that stand straight and tall to surround, protect and nurture the Rito.

Outside Te Awhi Rito are the ‘Tupuna’ or older leaves that bend towards the ground. These support the entire harakeke bush and eventually become part of the fertile ground beneath.

Like the harakeke we will stand with and for our tamariki to ensure they thrive and reach maturity. Te Awhi Rito Trust is a response by the local Anglican and Presbyterian Churches in Ōtaki to see our children thriving.

Our Current Programme

‘Kai & Koiri’ with Joseph Te Wiata from 4 pm – 5.30 pm in Ōtaki. Hadfield Hall, 47 Te Rauparaha Street.

These classes and kai are open to all 6 – 11-year-old tamariki in Ōtaki who want to have fun, exercise and good food! Sorry, we do have to keep the age limits.

A light meal will be served at 5 pm, tamariki can be collected at 5.30 pm.

Donations and Koha

We are always grateful to receive donations for our charitable trust (Te Awhi Rito, CC59321).

If you make a donation please email our admin team and we’ll provide a charitable donation letter.

Our Bank Account details

Customer name: TE AWHI RITO TRUST
Account number: 01 0530 0531095 00

For more information please email us at admin@teawhirito.nz

Ngā mihi

The Trustees, Te Awhi Rito

Rev Marie Collin, Denise Hapeta, Rev. Peter Jackson, Shane Hastie, Rev. Simon Falconer and Joseph Te Wiata.