Our headquarters at 93 Cameron Street now has a welcoming space for rest, connection, kai and access to wraparound support services. 

The new space brings together Whare Āwhina’s legal, housing, kai and wraparound support services under one roof. Alongside hot meals and a place to connect, visitors can access information about their free law service and social supermarket.

“Our core work is to meet the needs of the most vulnerable in our community, ensuring that we provide services that support ending homelessness and help people regain stability,” says CEO Liz Cassidy-Canning.

The services operating from our former Open Arms hub have transitioned to Cameron St, where everyone is welcome, everyone eats, and everyone is supported to thrive.

“This is more than just a move, it’s the next evolution of our kaupapa — making it easier for whānau to access what they need in a space built on dignity and manaakitanga," says Liz.

We also partner with external organisations to provide health and financial management pop-up services. 

The Cameron Street site continues to provide a safe postal address for those without a home — a critical lifeline for accessing health, documentation and social services. 

Founded in 1993 as a grassroots legal advocacy initiative, Whare Āwhina has grown into a collaborative Māori provider supporting whānau across Taitokerau. 

This move represents a natural next step in our growth — a return to our roots of listening, responding and being there for the community.

“Our values — whanaungatanga, manaakitanga, rangatiratanga and kotahitanga — guide everything we do,” Cassidy-Canning says. 

“We’re here to help whānau meet their immediate needs and walk with them toward their long-term aspirations.”

The community cafe is open Monday to Saturday, 8.30am–12.30pm.