From Surviving to Serving — A Māmā on a Mission to Heal Generations

Kia Ora, my name is Nataja, and I'm a solo Māori māmā of five beautiful tamariki — one of whom is autistic. I’m fundraising to relocate my whānau to Auckland, where I will begin a Kaupapa that’s been placed on my wairua for years: to feed, heal, and uplift our people.

I’ve overcome neglect, abuse, homelessness, and a system never built for someone like me. But I’ve done the inner healing. I’ve broken generational cycles. Now I’m ready to help others do the same.

This mission starts with food — warm, Koha-based meals delivered to māmā and tamariki in need. From there, I will grow a movement called Hawaiki Rising — a sanctuary for Māori whānau, especially those raising neurodivergent children.

I'll also launch a school lunch drive — a simple system where caregivers can pull up outside schools and receive free, healthy lunches for their tamariki. No shame. No paperwork. Just support.

And I’ll provide brand-new beds and bedding to whānau in need — mattresses, pillows, blankets, and linen — so no child has to sleep on the floor.

Your Koha supports relocation, transport, and clearing the financial blocks that have held me back. I’ll document each step so others can rise too.

I’m not asking for a handout. I’m here to change lives. It starts with food. It starts now.

Ngā mihi Nui — from my wairua and my tūpuna to yours.