In almost 20 years with the Community Probation Service, respected kaumatua Jack Taituha has had a positive impact on the lives of hundreds of Maori offenders and their communities.
Choosing work that's close to his heart, Jack started out as an assistant warden in the days of periodic detention and is now about to retire as a Community Work Supervisor. Reluctantly retiring, on 'doctor's orders', Jack still has plans to help out, offering his invaluable knowledge where needed.
The former freezing worker first saw an opportunity to work with Maori through the Department of Corrections in 1987.
“Working with our people is close to my heart. I wanted to help reduce the problem of Maori offending,” he says.
During his time with CPS, a highlight for Jack has been his involvement in tikanga-based programmes that aim to reconnect Maori offenders with their cultural heritage.
Five years ago, Jack was one of the founders of Te Wairua Me Nga Taonga Katoa which helps offenders find a sense of belonging by learning their whakapapa, maunga, awa and iwi. Jack believes this programme, which is still running today, has prevented many participants from re-offending.
Community Work Probation Officer Des Omundsen originally hired Jack and has seen him grow within the service. “He holds a lot of mana with staff and offenders. He is now referred to as a kaumatua by everyone; he has built up that much respect.”
Tikanga Maori is a big part of Jack's life, and he’s been keen to share that with his colleagues, teaching them about taha Maori and implementing procedures to help allowed staff to understand more about the culture.
Jack, who is originally from Tuhoe, has lived in Gisborne for 40 years where he and his wife raised their family.