MEET THE TEAM

MANAGER

I have worked in the social services sector in Kirikiriroa for many years co-ordinating Parenting programmes, Emergency housing, Foster Care, Supervised Access, Homestays, Professional Development, Personal assistance and Administration.

FINANCIAL MENTOR & FINANCIAL LITERACY FACILITATOR

I'm Edith, a certified Financial Mentor and Financial Literacy Facilitator at Desert Spring since 2019. With over a decade of experience as an accountant and running my own business, I bring a wealth of knowledge to helping clients manage their money better and get out of debt.

FINANCIAL MENTOR

I am a qualified Financial Mentor with a passion for helping individuals achieve their financial goals—whether it's breaking free from debt, saving for a significant purchase, or gaining awareness of the resources and support available in the community.  My aim is to empower people to live their healthiest, most financially secure lives. Te Puna Waiora, with its genuine focus on community empowerment, aligns perfectly with my values and mission.

FINANCIAL MENTOR

I have been a Financial Mentor at Te Puna Waiora Desert Spring Ministries Trust since March 2017 and I currently work two days per week. I really enjoy supporting our whanau in a wide variety of ways relating to finances. I particularly enjoy advocating for whanau when appropriate, especially where I believe they have been financially abused.

MAARA KAI (COMMUNITY GARDEN) FACILITATOR

I am passionate about growing food and habitat restoration, so working at Te Puna Waiora, running Maara Kai and facilitating workshops for the community is a dream come true.

GRANTS & FUNDING OFFICER

For over 20 years, I’ve worked for NZ charities, focussing on fundraising and compliance.

I’m passionate about helping lift communities out of inequity and making a positive difference.

FINANCIAL MENTOR, HEALTHY HOMES ADVISOR & LEARNER DRIVER LICENCE FACILITATOR

I'm fortunate to be a part of a great team and work environment that provides support for Whānau in the community.

RECEPTIONIST & LEARNER DRIVER LICENCE FACILITATOR

After 35 years in the music industry I took up a new challenge at Te Puna Waiora to serve the community as the frontline receptionist and Learner Driver Licence facilitator.

I love meeting new people and welcoming them to our Whare.

ADMINISTRATOR

I have held administrative roles across various sectors, including health, education, and local government. I am passionate about streamlining processes, providing professional executive support, and project management.

I love working at Te Puna Waiora, the mahi we do to serve our community is very gratifying.

TE REO MAORI FACILITATOR

I am well qualified as a teacher and a speaker of Te Reo, familiar with Te Reo ā-NgāPuhi, Te Reo ā-Ngāti Porou, and Te Reo ā-Waikato-Tainui, and some knowledge of old Te Reo.

CHAIRPERSON

As the Chairperson of the Desert Spring Ministries Trust, I am responsible for leading board meetings, ensuring effective governance, and representing the organisation externally.

I have been a full time Mum, registered Land Surveyor, run a lifestyle block raising calves and sheep  and worked as a Learning Assistant tutor for Adult students with disabilities.

I have also experienced life on a benefit after the death of my husband. I am currently on the leadership team at Discovery Christian Centre, Hamilton, NZ

SECRETARY

I serve as the Secretary of the Desert Spring Ministries Trust, handling administrative tasks, managing correspondence, scheduling meetings, and maintaining organizational records.

I play a crucial role in ensuring smooth operations and efficient communication within the organisation.

TRUSTEE

Ko Tangata Tiriti te iwi,
Ko Titahi Bay tōku ūkaipō,
Nō Kotiana me Ingarangi ōku tūpuna,
Nō Ruhia me Kotiana ngā tūpuna o tāku tāne.

I have worked with nonprofits for over 30 years in varied roles; teacher, facilitator, research associate, project manager, in finance and administration, as a trustee, and as acting manager at Te Puna Waiora in 2015.

I am currently employed by the Te Weu Charitable Trust as Business Coordinator, as well as participating in a range of environmental and social community initiatives. I have a Bachelor of Applied Science with Honours and have completed courses in community development, business, and communication. 

TRUSTEE

I joined the DSMT board in February 2025. While I am now based out in Morrinsville, I previously lived in Fairfield and attended Fairfield College. Otherwise, I spent my time growing up in Turkey with my family.

I now work as a lawyer at a local firm in Hamilton.