Award for Project Haere

Debbie Power, the Ministry of Social Development's deputy chief executive, with the award won by Te Aupouri Maori Trust Board's Project Haere with Carl Crafar and Michelle Hippolite.

Project Haere, a joint initiative between Te Aupouri Maori Trust Board and the Ministry of Social Development, has won the 2015 Institute of Public Administration NZ (IPANZ) award for excellence in Crown-Maori relationships.

MSD chief executive Brendan Boyle said he was very pleased to be at the awards ceremony and to see the ministry's "great work" in helping New Zealanders into jobs being recognised.

Project Haere had helped more than 50 previously unemployed Far North people into jobs in Christchurch over the past year, the Aupouri Maori Trust Board having seen an opportunity in the labour shortages in Christchurch. After exploring employment opportunities with Ngi Tahu and potential employers in Christchurch, it set out to build on its existing relationship with Work and Income in Northland and developed Project Haere, to identify and recruit suitable candidates for an intensive residential marae-based training programme.

Graduates were then flown to Christchurch, where they work under Allied Workforce contracts. Hostel accommodation was provided (at Success House), along with three meals a day and transport to and from work. Team leaders and a hostel supervisor provided intensive wraparound pastoral care.

"Many of the people who have been through the programme had previously not held a full-time job, and some have overcome alcohol or drug issues," Mr Boyle said.

"The results of the programme speak for themselves. More than 80 per cent who started with Project Haere are still employed, and 100 per cent remain off benefit.

"It's a great example of the public sector working with other organisations and the private sector to help New Zealanders be independent. Congratulations to Service Delivery and all those who worked on the project. Your award is well deserved."

Te Aupouri Maori Trust Board chairman Raymond Subritzky said the ministry had been approached to break the cycle of unemployment in Northland by addressing the limited employment opportunities in the region, and social barriers to employment such as low educational achievement, limited work experience, drug and alcohol use.

About 135 people had gone to Christchurch, an experience that for some had been life-changing.

"Being away from their families, some first-time fliers, cold conditions and placing them into a totally new environment had its problems, but we are happy with our successes so far," he said.

He also acknowledged the contributions made by CEO Lee West and the team at Kiwidotcom in Kaitaia.

"It's a good feeling when initiatives for the community are well supported by those who are in need of the service," he added.