Te Roopu Taurima provides long-term residential accommodation for people with an intellectual disability, usually over the age of 16, who are unable to be supported in their own home.
Skilled staff support tangata (clients) so they can live as individuals to maximise independence with a range of choices available to them.
Tangata reside in homes which are selected with their particular intellectual disability in mind and lead busy, active lives which may include attending day services classes, formal functions, gym classes, swimming, and going on visits to see whanau.
Cultural support is provided through our kaumatua, whaea (elders within the organisation) and kaimahi (support workers) and through the local kaumatua and kuia (elders). An ordained priest and kaimahi that are fluent in te reo Maori, karanga (the welcome call part of a powhiri) and whaikorero (speeches) are available within the roopu.
Maori people receiving support are provided with an environment that develops their rangatiratanga (leadership/sovereignty), acknowledges their whakapapa (geneology), respects their tribal kawa (marae protocol), and supports the use of te reo. Tangata and kaimahi powhiri into the roopu, and karakia (prayers) and waiata himene (hymns) are encouraged.
As a kaupapa Maori service, we have practices that encourage wellbeing – although we are based on Maori culture and values, we accept and value all cultural practices, inviting Tangata to maintain their own cultural traditions and values alongside tikanga.
Residential homes are currently based in the Auckland, Midlands, Christchurch and Northland regions.
Referral process
Referrals to Te Roopu Taurima are made by a needs assessment service coordination (NASC) agency, either Taikura Trust in Auckland, North Able in Northland, Disability Support Link in Hamilton, or Life Links in the South Island.
In order to be referred, tangata will need to respond to one or more of the following criteria:
- Primary disability is intellectual
- High physical needs
- High and complex needs
- Limited mobility
- Hearing and visual impairment
If you have any queries please contact:
TE ROOPU TAURIMA
PO Box 22-346, Otahuhu
Telephone 09 276 6282
Facsimile 09 259 9057
Email info@terooputaurima.org.nz
www.terooputaurima.org.nz
