Drop in. Connect. Build real-world skills.
Whakapakari is a relaxed after-school programme for high-school-aged rangatahi in Papatoetoe and surrounding communities.
It creates a welcoming space where young people can hang out, share kai, build friendships, and learn practical skills for everyday life, wellbeing and future pathways.
The name Whakapakari means to strengthen, develop and build up. At PACT, this is the heart of the programme — supporting rangatahi to grow in confidence, identity, resilience, connection and positive direction.
Come as you are. No pressure.
Poipoia te kākano kia puāwai.
Nurture the seed and it will blossom.
Why Whakapakari?
We know that rangatahi need safe, positive spaces where they can be themselves, connect with others, and build skills that are useful in real life.
Whakapakari exists to strengthen young people through relationship, practical learning, creativity, kai, kōrero and positive adult support. It is not about pressure or performance. It is about creating a space where rangatahi feel welcome, valued and encouraged to grow.
Through Whakapakari, rangatahi are supported to:
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Build confidence and self-awareness
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Strengthen identity, belonging and positive connection
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Develop practical life skills
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Grow in emotional regulation and resilience
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Build healthy friendships and social confidence
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Explore values, faith, identity and purpose
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Try new things in a safe and supportive environment
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Take positive next steps for their future
What happens at Whakapakari?
Each Friday starts with relaxed drop-in time, giving rangatahi space to arrive, settle in, connect and catch up with others.
Sessions usually include kai, check-ins, group activities, practical skills, creative or hands-on learning, and time to reflect together. The focus changes across the term, depending on what rangatahi are interested in and what would be useful for their everyday lives.
Across the year, sessions may include practical life skills, creative projects, future pathway support, communication and confidence-building, hands-on learning, and relaxed kōrero around identity, values, faith and purpose.
Recent sessions have included driver licence preparation, CV support, cooking, budgeting, art, computer skills, storytelling, car maintenance and baking.
Our approach
Whakapakari is grounded in PACT’s relational and holistic approach. We want rangatahi to feel known, safe and supported as they grow.
The programme supports young people to strengthen their wellbeing, identity, relationships, confidence and sense of direction. It gives rangatahi opportunities to try new things, develop practical skills, connect with positive adults and peers, and explore what matters to them.
Together, these experiences help rangatahi grow stronger from the inside out.
Who is it for?
Whakapakari is open to all high-school-aged rangatahi.
Young people do not need to be part of another PACT programme to come along. It is a good fit for rangatahi who would benefit from a relaxed, positive space to connect with others, learn practical skills and be supported by trusted adults.
