About us - He Kaakano

He kaakano i ruiruia mai i Rangiaatea

He Kaakano (meaning “the seed”) conveys growth, development, and expansion. Even before a seed is planted or nourished, it has inherent promise — the capability to take root, develop and grow.

All of us have this inherent potential for growth that needs continuous nourishment. We want to serve as the link between potential and realisation – to set the direction for the development, travelling forward to Rangiaatea and from it.

We envision the hub to be this seed that revitalises Ngaa Raurutanga. The seat will drive socio-economic progress for the wider Ngaa Rauru region by identifying, supporting and guiding the growth of future generations. The impact of this initiative includes the creation of intergenerational wealth and increased social inclusion.

He kaakano i ruruia mai i Rangiaatea

He Kaakano (meaning “the seed”) conveys growth, development, and expansion. Even before a seed is planted or nourished, it has inherent promise — the capability to take root, develop and grow.

We envision the hub to be this seed that revitalises Ngaa Raurutanga. The seat will drive socio-economic progress for the wider Whanganui region by identifying, supporting and guiding the growth of future generations. The impact of this initiative includes the creation of intergenerational wealth and increased social inclusion.

Origin Story Video

Our Mission

To provide a launching pad for the rangatahi, aspiring Maaori-preneurs and pakihi iti to reach their potential, where every passing day promises a better tomorrow.

Kaakano – Foundation

Foster self-discovery shaped by our history and heritage – where we come from is intricately linked to where we are headed

Tipuranga – Education

Create innovative learning practices to shape the rangatahi future potential – a space to explore, learn and build

Whaanaketanga – Entrepreneurship

Recognise the entrepreneurial spirit among Maaori and equip them with a business ecosystem to be change-makers

Puaawaitanga – Scale-up

Help local pakihi Maaori leverage new and powerful technologies to expand and grow

The Collective

He Kaakano is an initiative of Te Kaahui o Rauru in partnership with JIX, a creative tech innovation agency in Ootautahi. Several regional and national partners have been carefully chosen to deliver the excellence we envision in the education and entrepreneurship spaces.

Our Foundational Fabric

The Collective

He Kaakano is an initiative by Te Kaahui O Rauru (Ngaa Rauru Kiitahi) in partnership with JIX, a creative tech innovation agency in Christchurch. Several regional and national partners have been carefully chosen to deliver the excellence we envision in the education and entrepreneurship space.