About Tamariki Together
Building stronger communities through child-centered programs and family support
Our Story
Tamariki Together (T&T) is a community-led initiative dedicated to creating safe, positive, and empowering spaces for tamariki and rangatahi. Since 2018, our mission has been simple: bring children together to learn, connect, and grow in an environment that feels like whānau.
Our flagship program, Tamariki Together, offers free activities that help young people build friendships, develop confidence, and strengthen teamwork through fun, creativity, and shared experiences.
We also run Music Heals, a youth music programme that provides access to professional recording equipment and supportive mentors. It gives rangatahi a meaningful way to express themselves, process emotions, and find their voice—especially when talking about life's challenges feels difficult.
Beyond activities and music, we offer navigation support for families who need guidance through tough situations, connecting them to the right pathways and services. We see ourselves as a bridge—helping people get to the opportunities they deserve.
After being forced to close during COVID-19, we reopened in 2023 with renewed determination. Despite setbacks and ongoing renovation challenges, we continue to rebuild with passion, supported in part by our own food truck which helps fund programme costs.
Our new space holds deep meaning. Located next to the Dunedin bus hub—an area that has seen tragic harm—we are committed to transforming it into a safe haven where youth can gather, create, and feel supported. Plans include a music stage, arcade games, kai bar, lounge areas, free community gear hire, and expanded after-school programmes. Upstairs, Music Heals and our whānau navigation services will continue to grow.
At Tamariki Together, we believe that creating a safer, kinder world for our youth is a responsibility we all share. Our legacy is not what we do for ourselves, but what we do for the next generation.
Ngā mihi nui,
The Tamariki Together Team
This was the first ever Tamariki Together picture took at the start of our journey in 2018.
Our Values
Inclusivity
We welcome all tamariki and whānau. Everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and valued. No matter your identity, culture, or story, Tamariki Together is a place for you.
Empowerment
Young people shape T&T. We support every tamaiti to discover their strengths, have a say, and grow into confident, caring leaders for our community and Aotearoa.
Collaboration
We work as a whānau—youth, families, artists, and mentors coming together. Togetherness gives us strength and helps us create positive change for everyone.
Creativity & Fun
Laughter, play, music, games, and celebration are essential. Through the "Art of Fun," joy and learning go hand in hand, helping tamariki to connect and flourish.
Support & Wellbeing
We are here for more than just activities. Our whānau navigators and support team help with life's challenges, promoting mental wellness, resilience, and hope for every family.
Our Team
Tanga Tiatoa
Founder
Tanga has 15 years' experience in youth coordination. He leads our youth vision and program development initiatives, overseeing plans to achieve organizational goals and helping our community thrive is his priority.
Krystal Ryland
Administrator / Manager
Krystal oversees our daily operations and ensures all programs run smoothly while maintaining high quality standards.
Rawiri Lapham
Project Manager / Treasurer
Rawiri leads the team through the project by planning, developing, scheduling, and tracking our project plans. He also oversees the general financial management of our committee.
Richie Ratahi
Music Director
Richie delivers a program to youth that offers guidance around the music industry, providing them the space to practice self-expression.
Jordyn Collins
Whānau Navigator
Jordyn works closely with our community to identify their specific needs and aspirations, guiding them to the right services, education providers, or employment/business opportunities.
Roydon Gough
Music Coordinator / Navigator
Raydon works closely with our youth, providing guidance and expertise within the music industry.
Mandy De Leeuw
Administrative Assistant
Mandy provides administrative support to management, employees, volunteers and in some cases, clients & visitors. Other duties include scheduling and attending workshops, meetings and events.
Join Our Mission
Whether through volunteering, donating, or spreading the word, there are many ways to support our work with children and families.