Kaiwhakamana - A Jewel in the Crown

Raiha Ellis sees her role as a Kaiwhakamana as a way of connecting prisoners to whanau, hapu, iwi, spiritual and life issues.

Of great importance is their whakapapa (genealogy), introducing prisoners to a wairua or spiritual journey of themselves; of who they are and where they come from. This connection is of great importance as many go through life not knowing their roots.

Raiha Ellis hails from Ngapuhi in the North and Ngati Paoa of Hauraki. She has lived in the Wellington area for nine years and joined the parish of St Hilda’s in Upper Hutt when she arrived.

Through Pastoral Care Ministry, she developed a Prison Ministry with the Department of Corrections in 2002. When Kaiwhakamana were introduced in 2003 Raiha registered with the service and her journey began.

“We build trust, respect and rapport by creating a safe space for them to share and for the healing to begin. Kaiwhakamana can help people open their minds, hearts and doors,” says Raiha.

Initially the service of Kaiwhakamana was for Maori only. However through the work and attitude of people like Raiha it has extended to all prisoners, regardless of who they are and where they come from.

“The way I behave and connect with those around me, I am seen as a role model for prisoners. Our support, motivation and encouragement gives them hope and can facilitate change in their lives,” Raiha proudly says.

Tautoko Whaea!

Ka pai ta koutou mahi