Walk Together NZ

Managing group dynamics can be complex. Dominant voices can overshadow quieter ones, conflict can arise, and some participants may disengage. It’s easy for discussions to lose their balance and for important perspectives to be left unheard.

When groups bring different worldviews, experiences, and cultures into the room, we start with relationship, and put the kaupapa or issue in front of us rather than between us. Progress often happens when we recognise the “in-between space” where everyone can contribute meaningfully without leaving their own culture or values behind.

We call this philosophy Mutual Ways, which is covered in our Connect & Collaborate Pathways here: https://walktogether.co.nz/connect-collaborate/

Taking time to understand the culture of the group creates pathways for mutual movement. This awareness builds trust, helps manage tension, and supports decisions that everyone can stand behind.

Kia ora e te whānau o Facebook. Touching base for the first time in 2024.

I've been present (physically and emotionally) among all of the conversations and happenings inside our communities, the Government and across Aotearoa. It would be remiss for me not to address and express my sadness and disappointment as to what is happening for Māori, and for people in events around the world.

I have been focused on positioning Walk Together as one way to deal with some of these challenges in terms of the role of culturally responsive systemic change, with emphasis on the 'culturally'.

In keeping positive and forward momentum, I’m excited to share with you what's been happening behind the scenes over the last few months as I’ve walked through thinking about scaling Walk Together in not so conventional ways.

A New Turangawaewae - Website and Community Platform
Launching our new website on Ohoata [Tuesday 12 March]. Ohoata signals the energies shifting to higher vibrations and is optimal for the planting of new seeds or ideas as quoted by Rangipo Takuira-Mita ‘First planting moon. Sow the seed, be it kai or ideas’.

The new website has kept some of the old, and embraced some new. Working with For Purpose has helped to articulate what happens inside of Walk Together. I have greatly appreciated the co-creation with the team, and outcome of the mahi.

System Navigators Kaupapa

In 2024 we have welcomed 8 Wāhine Māori and Wāhine Pasifika who have joined the Walk Together whānau this year. Thanks to the J R McKenzie Trust and Sylvia Moe who are sponsoring this kaupapa to happen. Thank you also to Dave Goddard for your blessing and support of this journey. You can find out more and follow our journey of growth through our website, newsletters and our online community.

A New Online Community

We have created a new community. This community is free to join. It is infant in its establishment, and we look forward to welcoming more of you who align (or not) with our philosophy and ways of working. You can join our community through our website.

100,000 Cups of Tea - Starting Monday 18 March at 1pm.

For those who are not familiar, we host a Zoom cup of tea each Monday with anyone who wants to come along. We spend half an hour on shared topics. Join our Linkedin Newsletter or register on our website.

Check out www.walktogether.co.nz on Tuesday 12 March at 8am. You will find new ways to connect with a small community, new services and upcoming opportunities.

Wishing everyone all the best in their pursuits in 2024.
Mauriora,
Arama

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