Community Champion Spotlight: Memory Mio

Every other month, Healthy Families East Cape celebrates one of our incredible local champions. These are people who are creating positive and transformational change towards the wellbeing of our whānau and communities across Te Tairāwhiti. 

This month, we shine a light on Memory Whakarerenga Mio, Whānau Ora Kaiārahi for Te Ao Hou Trust, as she prepares to close one chapter and begin another. After nine years of service supporting whānau across Ōpōtiki and beyond, Memory is farewelled this week with deep aroha and gratitude from all who have had the privilege of working alongside her. 

Ko wai koe, nō hea koe? 

He uri au o Ngāti Porou, Te Whānau-ā-Apanui, Ngāi Tai, Te Whakōhea, Ngāi Tūhoe anō hoki. Nō Ōpōtiki ahau. I was born and raised here, from the Collier whānau on my father’s side and the Hata whānau on my mother’s. I married into the Mio whānau from Tōrere, and my life has always been grounded in whakapapa and whanaungatanga. The relationships I have across our community have helped me walk easily in this mahi, because whether whānau are from town, from the coast, or even in the gangs, they are still my whānau. 

Kei te aha? 

For the past nine years, I’ve been a Whānau Ora Kaiārahi with Te Ao Hou Trust, helping whānau navigate their challenges and reconnect with what keeps them strong. It’s been a privilege to walk alongside whānau through both hard times and moments of celebration. I’ve also worked closely with our Healthy Families team and others across the hauora space. 

As I move into my new role with Ngāi Tai Iwi Authority, I’m excited to slow down a little, spend more time with my own whānau, and continue giving back in ways that keep me well. 

How did you get your name and what does it mean? 

My full name is Memory Whakarerenga Mio. I was named after a kuia, Whakarerenga, from the whānau Tūpara. Who passed away on the day my twin sister and I were born. Her daughter came to my mother and asked if I could be named in memory of her. 

What was your favourite story or movie growing up? 

Growing up, we used to go to the movies in Ōpōtiki every Saturday while our parents played sport. We’d line up, spend our pocket money, and always stand for God Save the Queen before the movie started. One movie that really stayed with me was Once Were Warriors, it reflected the reality of our whānau back then. It hit home because I saw people I knew in that movie. 

What’s one of the most special or memorable moments in your mahi? 

So many memories stand out, but the ones I cherish most are the times our team at Te Ao Hou Trust came together outside the office, like our trip up the Motu River or our visit to Hikurangi maunga. Those were moments of connection, reflection, and healing. They reminded us that our mahi isn’t just about helping others, it’s also about taking time to reconnect with each other and the whenua. 

What is something everyone should know about your community? 

Whakapapa is everything. It’s what connects us, Māori, Pākehā, everyone who calls Ōpōtiki home. When we remember who we come from and how we’re related, it changes the way we see each other. I’ve always believed that if our rangatahi understood their whakapapa, a lot of the raru we see in our community could be eased. 

What legacy do you want to leave behind? 

Kotahitanga. I want our people to come together, whether you’re from Te Whānau-ā-Apanui, Whakatōhea, Ngāi Tai, or any other iwi. When we stand as one, we can face the hard things together and celebrate the good things together. That’s what strengthens a community. 

What is a good piece of advice you’ve ever been given? 

Linda once told me, “Don’t get too involved.” At first, I didn’t know what she meant, because it’s hard not to when you care so deeply. But I’ve learnt that looking after yourself is part of looking after your whānau. You can’t pour from an empty cup. So now I remind others, don’t take your mahi home with you, and always make time to fill your own wairua. 

Who is a community champion you know that is awesome for their community? 

Linda is definitely one. She’s involved in so many parts of the community, from the RSA to Quota and she’s held Te Ao Hou together with pride and grace. The mana and wairua of this place are strong because of her. 

Ngā mihi aroha 

Thank you, Memory, for your aroha, your strength, and your years of service to our whānau. Your impact will continue to ripple through our community for many years to come. 

E te kōkā, haere koe i tō haerenga roa i runga i te korowai aroha o tō mātou whare, te whare o He Oranga Whānau Te Tairāwhiti.