Seeking Colours Community Project
is a community-led initiative supporting rangatahi aged 10–18 and kaumātua aged 65+ through connection, practical support, mentoring and meaningful opportunities to contribute to their community.
We believe that everyone has a story, and that our experiences help shape the people we become. Our name, Seeking Colours, reflects the idea that life can be colourful filled with different experiences, challenges, strengths, identities and possibilities.
Our kaupapa is centred around whanaungatanga, kotahitanga, rangatiratanga and tuakana–teina. We create spaces where people feel valued, supported and connected, while recognising the strengths and contributions that each generation brings.
We empower rangatahi to recognise their strengths, explore their interests and build confidence in themselves and their future.
Our approach focuses on early intervention and prevention, providing support while young people are developing their identity, navigating new experiences and making important decisions about their education, employment and future.
Through mentoring, after-school programmes, leadership opportunities and practical support, we help rangatahi develop the skills and confidence they need to navigate life.
This includes support with important steps such as:
Applying for StudyLink, grants and scholarships
Obtaining birth certificates and other important identification
Opening and managing bank accounts
Creating a CV and preparing for employment
Exploring education, training and career pathways
Working towards obtaining a driver's licence
Developing practical life and independence skills
We also provide practical support and connection for kaumātua aged 65+, including household chores, gardening, grocery shopping, errands and companionship.
We recognise that many elders are also caring for their mokopuna and may need time and space for themselves. Through our respite support, we aim to provide practical relief while strengthening connection and support within the community.
At the heart of Seeking Colours is the belief that rangatahi and kaumātua have much to offer one another.
Through tuakana–teina and intergenerational activities, we create opportunities for young people to learn from the generations before them, while also giving kaumātua opportunities to share their knowledge, experiences and stories.
We are here to create connection, build confidence and strengthen community — one relationship at a time.