FATHERS FOR FAMILIES PROGRAMME
Te Ara Poutama o te Matua Marama
a journey of a man with a vision
14-Week transformational Journey
At Fathers For Families, we believe in the power of fathers to transform their families and communities by breaking cycles of violence and fostering healthy, loving relationships.
Our 14-week Family Violence Intervention Programme is a carefully designed journey that empowers men to embrace their roles as individuals, partners, and parents.
For The Man
Week 1-5
This foundational phase focuses on self-awareness and personal accountability. Participants explore their identity, values, and the impact of their behaviour on others.
For The husband
Week 6-8
This phase helps men strengthen their partnerships by fostering mutual respect, empathy, and healthy communication.
For The father
Week 9-13
The final phase empowers men to embrace their role as kaitiaki (guardians) within their whānau, focusing on their responsibilities as fathers and role models.
Week 14
MY JOURNEY
This week’s focus is reflecting on personal growth, achievements and celebrating participant’s progress to graduate one’s journey of self-discovery.
Graduate Programmes
Graduate programs are for men who have completed ‘Te ARA POUTAMA o Te MATUA MARAMA’ and are looking for continued ongoing support.
gYM gROUPS
Every Wednesday morning,
We come together not just to work out, but to build strength, resilience and unity. Our gym sessions are more than just a routine, they are a testament to our commitment to health, well-being and each other.
Why We Do This:
For Our Health: Each session is a step towards a healthier, stronger version of ourselves. We push our limits, knowing that every drop of sweat brings us closer to our fitness goals.
For Our Team: Working out together fosters camaraderie and support. We cheer each other on, celebrate our progress and lift each other up when the going gets tough.
For Our Mindset: Physical activity boosts our mood, sharpens our focus and prepares us to tackle the challenges of the day with renewed energy and positivity.
pEER sUPPORT gROUP
Hey Graduates!
Welcome to our Monday evening peer support group! This is your space to connect, share, and grow together as we navigate the exciting and sometimes challenging journey post-graduation. Whether you're starting a new job, exploring further studies, or figuring out your next steps, this group is here to support you.
Feel free to share your thoughts, concerns, and triumphs in this judgment-free zone. Meet fellow graduates, exchange ideas, and build connections that can help you in your personal and professional life. Gain insights from others' experiences, learn new strategies, and find inspiration to tackle your goals.
Remember, you're not alone. Every graduate faces challenges, and together, we can overcome them. Celebrate every achievement, no matter how small, and let's cheer each other on!
So, grab a cup of coffee, bring your thoughts, and let's make Monday evenings a time for growth, support, and connection. We can't wait to see you there!
wALK THAT tALK
Every Thursday mornings,
This is your chance to enjoy the outdoors, get some exercise, and connect with others in a relaxed and friendly environment. Whether you're looking to clear your mind, have meaningful conversations, or simply enjoy a stroll, this group is here for you.
Join us for a refreshing walk where you can share your thoughts, ideas, and experiences. It's a great way to meet new people, build connections, and support each other while staying active. Our walks are designed to promote well-being, both physically and mentally.
Remember, every step counts. Walking together not only boosts our health but also strengthens our community. Let's encourage each other, celebrate our progress, and make each walk a memorable experience.
So, lace up your walking shoes, bring your enthusiasm, and let's make our Walk & Talk sessions a time for connection, support, and rejuvenation. We look forward to walking with you!
aLUMNI COHORT
Hello Graduates!
Continue your journey and reconnect twice a year during breakfast with fellow graduates. These special gatherings are more than just a meal; they are a celebration of our shared experiences, growth, and the bonds we've formed. It's a time to reflect on our achievements, share our stories, and inspire each other as we move forward in our personal and professional lives.
Among us are a selected few who have chosen to give back by co-facilitating weekly groups and services. These dedicated individuals embody the spirit of community and support, helping to guide and uplift their peers. Their commitment to assisting the team is a testament to the power of connection and the impact we can have when we work together.
Whether through mentoring, sharing knowledge, or simply being there for one another, we all have a role to play in fostering a supportive and thriving community.
So, let's come together, enjoy a hearty breakfast, and celebrate the journey we've embarked on. Let's reconnect, recharge, and recommit to making a positive impact. We look forward to seeing you there and continuing this incredible journey together!
FATHERS FOR FAMILIES - EXTENDED SERVICES
ME AS A HUSBAND/PARTNER EXCURSION`s
Rebuilding Connection – One Experience at a Time
This full-day couples’ excursion creates a safe and uplifting space for husbands and partners to step away from everyday pressures and invest in their relationship.
Through shared activities, quality time, and guided moments of reflection, couples reconnect, practise healthy communication, and celebrate the strengths in their relationship.
Rooted in cultural values of respect, aroha, and partnership, this day reminds couples that love is not just a feeling — it’s a choice we keep making together.
OUR WHANAU DAY - CELEBRATING TOGETHERNESS, BUILDING STRONGER BONDS
Our whanau Day is our chance to come together, celebrate, and strengthen the ties that make us who we are. It’s a day for laughter, shared kai, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
At Fathers For Families, we believe that healthy, loving relationships are built in the everyday moments — and our Whanau Day is all about making those moments happen. Whether it’s joining in fun games, taking part in cultural activities, or simply spending time with the people who matter most, every part of the day is designed to bring whanau closer together.
Guided by our values of aroha, whanaungatanga, manaakitanga, and kotahitanga, our Whanau Day celebrates the strength, resilience, and joy found in our families. It’s about reconnecting, honouring our shared stories, and reminding each other that together, we can build a better future for our tamariki.
Let’s make this a day to remember.
ME AS A FATHER EXCURSION`s
Strengthening Bonds Between Fathers and Tamariki
This father–child excursion is a unique opportunity for dads to be fully present with their tamariki in a fun, supportive, and memory-rich environment.
Away from distractions, fathers and children take part in interactive activities, challenges, and shared kai — all designed to build trust, pride, and mutual respect.
It’s a day where tamariki feel valued and heard, and fathers see the impact of their presence and love in action.
FFF ALUMNI COMMUNITY SERVICES
Practical Support for Whanau, Right Where You Are.
At Fathers For Families, we know that the first steps into a new programme can be challenging — especially when everyday pressures pile up. That’s why our Community Services team steps in to provide practical, hands-on support for our new participants and their whanau.
Whether it’s mowing lawns, tidying gardens, clearing outdoor spaces, or helping with light household chores, we’re here to lighten the load so families can focus on what matters most — healing, connection, and building a better future together.
It’s more than a helping hand — it’s our way of showing aroha, manaakitanga, and whanaungatanga in action. Because at Fathers For Families, we believe that strong relationships start with looking out for one another, both inside and outside our home.
At Fathers For Families, we know that true transformation goes beyond the programme room. That’s why we offer relationship-strengthening excursions designed to take learning off the page and into real life — creating shared experiences that restore trust, deepen connection, and inspire lasting change.
Court & Legal Support
As part of our commitment to walking alongside our Fathers on their journey of restoration, Fathers For Families offers support with legal processes where possible. This includes guidance and advocacy through Family Group Conferences (FGC), District Court matters, and related court proceedings. Where our team is unable to assist directly, we can connect fathers with trusted professionals and legal services through our wider support network.
LEADERSHIP TO EMPLOYMENT
Te Ara Whakamua is our 14-week Leadership to Employment Programme designed as the next step for participants who have completed Te Ara Poutama o te Matua Mārama. This kaupapa strengthens men to build confidence, leadership skills, and readiness for employment or further education. Through a mix of practical workshops, cultural grounding, and one-on-one support, men are empowered to take the next step in restoring their lives – not just as fathers, but as leaders within their whanau, workplace, and community.
LEADERSHIP TO EMPLOYMENT
TE ARA WHAKAMUA -
A PATH FORWARD
14-Week Prevention & Leadership Development Programme
Restoring Mana. Building Legacy.
Te Ara Whakamua is Fathers For Families’ (FFF) 14-week prevention and leadership development programme designed specifically for men who have successfully graduated from Te Ara Poutama o te Matua Mārama, our family violence intervention programme.
This next stage supports our tane to move beyond healing into leadership, strengthening identity, emotional maturity, relational intelligence, and future pathways. Te Ara Whakamua empowers fathers not only to maintain positive change but to step into roles of influence within whanau, workplaces, and communities.
The programme weaves together kaupapa Maori, Biblical leadership Principles, trauma-informed practices, and employment readiness into a cohesive journey of growth.