28 Nov 2012

Whanau Ora putting Auckland rangatahi in work

9:04 am on 28 November 2012

An Auckland hapu says Whanau Ora funding is helping the hapu to find jobs for young Maori men.

Ngati Whatua o Orakei sends out a scout to talk to potential employers, while a kaitoko whanau (family support officer) tracks down rangatahi who need work.

Over three months, its industry employment programme has placed 17 people in jobs - mainly with roading and construction contractors.

Ngati Whatua o Orakei trustee Sharon Hawke says they're also finding opportunities for those who want to do skilled work.

She says successful relationships are being set up with big companies such as Fulton Hogan and Hawkins Construction who are offering engineering scholarships to young hapu members.

Ms Hawke says the sub-tribe itself has taken on three staff to work in administration, communications and graphic design.