Our Story - Kohatu Mauri

KŌ WAI

Inspired by te ao, Driven by Whānau

Kōhatu Mauri was inspired by the desire to emancipate and not be put in a box when it came to mahi. By using our diverse skills and networks, we felt we could contribute to the success of whānau. Based in Tāmaki Makaurau, we are dedicated to uplifting practices with the intent of leaving people feeling they have had a meaningful engagement. Our services are rooted in Te Ao Māori and are aimed at developing and connecting.

Our Mission

At Kōhatu Mauri, our mission is to utilise our diverse range of services. We strive to uplift and support individuals, whānau, and communities, focusing on positive outcomes and cultural connection.

Our Values

Our core values guide everything we do. We believe in manaakitanga, whānaungatanga, and kaitiakitanga, ensuring that every interaction and service we provide is infused with respect, connection, and care for the environment.

OUR FOUNDERS

Kōhatu Mauri was established by friends Sandy & Ria who met through Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa . Ria has whakapapa from Rawhiti in the Bay of Islands, Ngā Puhi, Ngāti Wai, Ngāti Ruanui, Taranaki, and Samoa. Sandy has whakapapa to Te Kao in the Far North and the Bay of Plenty, Ngāti Kurī, Te Rarawa, Te Aupōuri, Te Arawa, Ngāti Pikiao, and Ngāi Tūhoe. Their shared vision of whānau wellbeing and the combination of their diverse talents led to the creation of their multifaceted pakihi.

RIA SIDWELL

Ria is a creative soul and mother of two amazing sons and a beautiful daughter. She is passionate about Te Ao Māori and is on her journey to reclaim her reo through Te Atarangi. She prides herself on being solution-focused, having good interpersonal skills, and demonstrating resourcefulness. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Māori Development and a Postgraduate Diploma in Whānau Development, with experience working for iwi, Hoani Waititi Marae, and multiple tertiary providers in project leads through education, retention & recruitment, research, justice, and with rangatahi Māori. Ria thrives in positive environments and is a confident facilitator and innovator.

SANDY TAHITAHI FIFIELD

Sandy is a highly experienced professional with an extensive background in business management, team leadership, and operational excellence. She has studied Māori Development, Architecture, Project Management, Construction, and Applied Management. Sandy has two adult children and is part of a large extended whānau in the Far North and Bay of Plenty. She is passionate about whānau and te taiao. She prides herself on her deep sense of tika, pono, and aroha. She is also a creative individual and has produced work for exhibitions and private collections. She is excited to be on her journey to reclaim her reo and further explore her creativity.

TE HAPORI WHĀNUI

In our vibrant and inclusive Te Hapori Whānui, we foster a sense of belonging and connection among individuals, whānau and the wider community. Rooted in the values of Te Ao Māori, our community is a space where cultural richness, support, and empowerment intersect.

arotake

reviews

Shoretys Hair Studio & Barber

Ngā Pihi Kōhanga

Ahi Kaa Trust

Mana Enhancing Kaipakihi

Have a question, or want a product recommendation? Get in touch.

Ria Sidwell

Sandy Tahitahi Fifield

KŌ WAI

Inspired by te ao, Driven by Whānau

Our Mission

Our Values

te hapori whānui

whānau

takitahi