Pete Leach - ManagerComing from a Military and Corporate Commercial background, I was interested in diversifying my career that little more and having already worked in the Homeless and Aged Residential Care sector, when the opportunity came up to apply for the position of Manager of Papatūānuku Trust, and then following a visit, I found it to good an opportunity to turn away. The job, although challenging, is filled with enjoyment at every moment. It’s a cliché but it is so true, every day brings its different challenges. It’s so comforting to work with an amazing supportive, board of trustees, who take an active role in the governance of Papatūānuku Trust and have the long-term sustainable vision at the heart of everything we do. Papatūānuku Trust is set in a idyllic setting in the hills surrounding Waikawa, the views are amazing, the residents are amazing, the role is amazing.
MEET OUR STAFF
There is one Manager, one Administrator, nine part time Support Workers and a Property Manager at the Trust.
The Trust has been fortunate to have had dedicated Staff who have made many sacrifices and many gains for their Residents over all the years it has operated. The Staff become part of the team and participate as any other team would, showing support and guidance where needed. As well as the day to day management of the welfare of residents.
Tina - AdministratorI discovered Papatūānuku Independency Trust after dropping a resident off home one evening and now excited to be part of the team. Originally from Bluff in the deep south, I moved to beautiful Marlborough ten years ago. I feel so blessed to live in such a lovely spot with my husband, three daughters and extended whanau. In between, I've travelled a lot, mainly Australia, Europe, Nepal and lived in Aberdeen, Scotland for ten years. My work background was hugely administration, working in the oil industry and on the rigs for a lot of that time. Followed by support and care work for the past ten years, I really enjoy seeing people grow.
Samantha - Support StaffMy name is Samanath, a mother of 4 in my late 20s. I am new to Papatūānuku Trust, and the support work field as a whole. I come from a history of administrative work and direct sales but have found this work to be very fun and rewarding. I love spending my days with the residents and helping everyone live their life to the fullest. I come from a family full of neurodiversity, and being neurodiverse myself, I feel that this new career path "fits". Things I enjoy doing in my spare time (if I get any) are gaming and watching anime at home, coaching and playing social netball in the community and getting on the water at Marlborough sounds.
Mary - Support StaffHi my name is Mary, my husband and I moved to Picton area 8 years ago from Darfield. I have been working in the care industry for approx. 8 years and enjoy the challenge of looking after vulnerable people. I have spent most of my life working in hospitals, aged care facilities, access and IHC in Blenheim. I am privileged to have the chance to work at Papatūānuku Independency Trust. The environment in which we work in is stunning and along with every Resident at Papatūānuku being unique, this brings a ray of sunshine to my work. Every Resident has their own personality and this ensures plenty of laughter and yes there are sometimes tears, but everything has a peaceful ending. My moto throughout my life has been “treat everybody the way I would like to be treated” that is with empathy and respect. I will continue to do this at Papatūānuku Trust. I love working at the Trust.
Therese - Support StaffI have been working at Papatūānuku Trust for over 11 years, and it has become part of my extended family. I really enjoy helping the residents, watching them grow and making them happy with their lives. I also love watching my own sons develop into amazing young men. Why I like working at Papatūānuku: I have my very own rainbow family up at the trust, I get as much enjoyment and job satisfaction back from our residents, in the way of laughter, self-growth and enjoyment of their lives. I love watching them interact and share tier enjoyment, and having the freedom to be the amazing people they are.
Wendy - House ManagerI have been a support worker at Papatūānuku Trust since 2016. My background qualifications include Diploma in Early Childhood Education as well as certificates in understanding Dementia, Prada Willi Syndrome and Health and Safety in the work place. I have a love for the outdoors especially gardening, walking and fishing. Scouting has been a big influence in my life. As Papatūānuku Trust recognises the Person Centred Thinking philosophy I encourage the people I support to make the most of every opportunity and to do the best they can in everything they choose to do.
Lesleyanne - Support StaffI started at the Trust in 2019 and have enjoyed being part of the residents’ lives and being part of a great team of support staff. Some of the things I enjoy doing include rowing every Sunday with the Picton rowing club, tramping/walking, performing in a kapa haka group and gardening. After having a year off it is good to be back catching up with everyone and seeing all the positive changes.
Jen - Support StaffHello, my name is Jen. I am a local from Picton, having lived in Picton for 27 years. I was originally from the UK but moved here 27 years ago and love it. I started at Papatūānuku Trust because I see what amazing work they have been doing with people who are more vulnerable than myself, and want to pay it back in any way I can. I love the happy family environment at the Trust and the interaction with the residents is like an extended family. I love watching how they go about their every day lives and are so happy in the environment they live. The atmosphere at Papatūānuku is one of joy and happiness, with the residents at the centre of everything that is done and every decision that is made. Working at Papatūānuku isn’t like going to work, it a place that gives so much happiness that it’s a pleasure and a joy to be here.
Joseph - Support StaffI have been working in the industry since March 2020 with different service providers, I joined Papatūānuku Trust as a part-time support worker. My primary goal is to provide care and support to individuals with disabilities, helping them to lead independent and fulfilling lives. I have a passion for working with people and am dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of those I work with. My approach to care is person-centered, meaning that I focus on the individual's unique needs and preferences, working collaboratively with them and their families to create a supportive and empowering environment. I am skilled in developing and implementing care plans, providing personal care and assistance with daily living activities, and supporting individuals in accessing community resources and services. Above all else, I am committed to treating each individual with dignity and respect, fostering a trusting and supportive relationship that allows them to achieve their goals and live their best life. Happy to be a part of the Papatūānuku Trust.
Ann - Support StaffI started at the Trust in 2019 and have enjoyed being part of the Residents lives and being part of a great team of support staff. Some of the things I enjoy doing include rowing every Sunday with the Picton rowing club, tramping/walking, performing in a kapa haka group and gardening. After having a year off it is good to be back catching up with everyone and seeing all the changes.
