Kaumātua Service Providers from around the country have been invited to Palmerston North, November 6th – 8th to attend the Fifth National Kaumātua Service Providers hui.As part of the long term planning process for the Kaumātua service provider sector, Hei Manaaki Ngā Kaumātua Charitable Trust has called the hui to provide an opportunity for workers, leaders and Kaumātua to have input into the future direction of the sector as a whole.Hei Manaaki Ngā Kaumātua Trust Project Manager Yvonne Wilson says, "“Ko te amorangi ki mua, Ko te hāpai ō ki muri” - Holding elders in high esteem with the support of our service providers reminds us of the importance to ensure our workforce are respected, supported and strengthened so they can deliver the best service to our Kuia and Kaumātua in our communities. This combination will give us a sound platform and should provide some good go forward capacity for our sector as we lay down a vision and direction for our collective future."The opening ceremony for the hui will begin at 9.30am at the Travel Lodge on Cuba Street in Palmerston North on the 6th of November.A range of keynote speakers and presenters includes the following:

• Hon Tariana Turia
• Dr Mere Kepa
• Ken Mair
• Nancy Tuaine
• Professor John Oetzel
• Te Rawhitiroa Bosch
• Heather Came
• Professor Mason Durie

There will also be facilitated discussion sessions called Te Huinga - World Cafe will provide attendees with an opportunity to share their dreams, aspirations, issues and solutions.The hui will also host two special celebration dinner events acknowledging the deeds of local Kuia, Kaumātua and service providers who have made a significant contribution at a local and national level.

• For more information please contact Kaye kaye@heimanaaki.org.nz or 021 02924328 or go to the website www.heimanaaki.org.nz