WHO WE ARE
Started in 2020 by a young Māori wahine with lived experience and a big heart for helping others, this kaupapa Māori AOD support service was built from the ground up by locals who know firsthand what recovery looks and feels like.
Kaupapa Māori
Tikanga-based healing that acknowledges whakapapa, restores cultural identity, and honors Te Reo Rangatira in everything we do.
Clinical Excellence
Evidence-based AOD treatment delivered by qualified, registered clinicians using trauma-informed practice, CBT and DBT approaches.
Lived Experience
Peer support workers who have walked the same path, bringing real understanding and authentic connection to support whaiora.
OUR KAUPAPA
Values in Action
Our five core values aren’t just words – they guide every interaction, program, and decision we make in supporting whaiora on their recovery journey.
Wairuatanga in Action
Through Wairuatanga, we nurture spiritual wellbeing by incorporating karakia (prayer) and himene (hymns). At Whakaoranga Whānau Recovery Hub, we practice and learn these rituals, understanding their meanings and how they connect to individual journeys in addiction and recovery. These practices help guide our whaiora toward peace and self-connection, building resilience and grounding. By embracing karakia and himene, we provide a foundation of spiritual support that empowers whaiora to find strength, purpose, and healing on their path to recovery.
Tikanga in Action
Through Tikanga, we honor customs that shape respectful, grounded connections within Whakaoranga Whānau. We practice mihi whakatau (welcoming ceremonies) to acknowledge each person’s journey, encourage learning te reo Māori to deepen cultural connection, and observe kawa (correct protocols) in daily routines. These practices reinforce a foundation of mana and aroha creating a safe kaupapa māori space that empowers whaiora on their journey toward recovery.
Manaakitanga in Action
Manaakitanga guides us to create a supportive and compassionate environment at Whakaoranga Whānau Recovery Hub. We embody this by engaging in Mahi Rangatira (service) within the community, extending care and respect beyond our own walls. We honor everyone’s unique journey without judgment, offering a safe, non-judgmental space where each whaiora feels valued. This approach fosters a culture of kindness, empathy, and shared responsibility, empowering individuals as they move forward on their path to recovery.
Whanaungatanga in Action
Whanaungatanga fosters a deep sense of belonging and connection within Whakaoranga Whānau Recovery Hub. We build this by encouraging the inclusion of whānau, hapū and hapori in our space through events, programs, and partnerships with local Māori organizations. By creating opportunities for shared experiences and open, honest communication, we strengthen supportive bonds among whaiora and their extended networks. This collective support empowers individuals to journey through recovery together, surrounded by a network that values and uplifts them.
Tino Rangatiratanga in Action
Tino Rangatiratanga empowers whaiora at Whakaoranga Whānau Recovery Hub to reclaim self-determination and independence in their recovery journey. We support this by fostering personal autonomy and encouraging each individual to define their own path. Through goal-setting programs and connections to Māori mentors and role models, we help whaiora build confidence and resilience. By honoring each person’s unique strengths and choices, we create a space where they can exercise their sovereignty, reclaiming control over their lives with dignity and purpose.
5+
YEARS OF
service
300+
Whaiora Supported
9
Community Partners
4
4 Core Programs
About Us
Our Impact in Te Tai Tokerau
Transforming lives through kaupapa Māori recovery approaches, building stronger whānau and communities across Northland.
See our recently featured article & video from the NZ Herald
Kaikohe addiction hub ‘in the trenches’ as meth rehab demand outstrips funding
Our Kaiwhakahaere Featured in Groundbreaking Motuhaketanga Documentory
WOW Hub Recovery and our CEO Rhonda Zielinski are prominently featured in ‘Motuhaketanga: Wāhine Māori, Incarceration and Life Outside the Wire’ – an intimate two-part documentary that follows the transformative journeys of three wāhine Māori as they prepare to leave prison and rebuild their lives.
This powerful documentary showcases the real-world impact of kaupapa Māori recovery approaches and highlights the critical role that culturally grounded support services like WOW Hub play in helping whaiora transition from incarceration to independence.
Rhonda’s expertise and compassionate approach are featured throughout both episodes, demonstrating our commitment to walking alongside whaiora during their most challenging moments.
The documentary is a testament to the strength and resilience of wāhine Māori and shows how proper support can transform lives – exactly the kaupapa that drives our mahi every day.”
“Produced by Kathleen Mantel, Black Iris Productions”
HOW WE HEAL
Kaupapa Māori Recovery That Transforms Lives
We combine traditional tikanga with modern clinical approaches to create safe, bespoke learning spaces where whaiora can rebuild their identity, develop resilience, and start their journey to freedom.
Whānau-Centered
Recovery affects the whole whānau. We walk alongside families with manaakitanga, providing wraparound support that strengthens relationships and builds collective healing.
Community Connection
Strong partnerships with local iwi, health services, and community organizations ensure whaiora have access to housing, advocacy, and ongoing support beyond our programs.
Breaking Cycles
By supporting whaiora to reconnect with their culture and develop new skills, we help break intergenerational cycles of addiction and trauma, creating better futures for tamariki.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Our compassionate team is here to support you with culturally grounded, professional addiction recovery services. Whether you’re ready to begin or just want to learn more, we’re here to help.
- 📞 Phone: 09 401-0975
- ✉️ Email: info@wowhub.co.nz
- 📍 Address: 135 Broadway, Kaikohe, NZ
✓ Confidential services ✓ Crisis support available ✓ Whānau welcome