OUR PROJECTS
The Southern Initiative (TSI) mobilises projects aimed at creating social and economic equity in South and West Auckland by supporting communities most in need. Our initiatives focus on employment, enterprise, education, and wellbeing, using innovation and partnerships to drive systemic change and improve outcomes for whānau.
Amotai
New Zealand’s supplier diversity intermediary, connecting Māori and Pasifika-owned businesses with government and corporate procurement opportunities. They certify businesses, provide capability support, and advocate for supplier diversity to drive economic growth for Māori and Pasifika enterprises.
The Good Employer Matrix (GEM)
An online tool designed to help businesses assess and improve their employment practices across key areas such as recruitment, training, capability and pay conditions. It provides practical resources, benchmarks, and guidance to support businesses in becoming fair and responsible employers.
Auckland Co-Design Lab
Helps to connect ‘on the ground’ learning back into systems to inform investment and decision-making that is focused on what matters and makes a difference to whānau. It focuses on shared services, innovation, and strategic projects to improve public service delivery and reduce costs across the region.
Māori and Pasifika Trades Training (MPTT)
A scholarship and support programme that helps Māori and Pasifika learners gain skills and qualifications in the trades. It provides financial assistance, mentoring, and pathways into apprenticeships to increase workforce participation and career success in the trades sector.
Tamariki Wellbeing
Focused on improving early childhood wellbeing by addressing systemic barriers and advocating for whānau-centered, equity-focused, and Te Tiriti-aligned solutions. Through the development of an Early Years Implementation Learning Platform they facilitate collaboration, share learnings, and improve communication across agencies
Buzzly
A digital platform connecting young people to local government, schools, charities and businesses to share ideas, solve real-world challenges, and shape futures. Not only do we help rangatahi share their views on what matters, they are learning about civic engagement and participation. Buzzly is more than a platform. It's a movement for meaningful, youth-led engagement and change.