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Ariana Smith
Regional Manager Bay of Plenty
A proud wife and Mama to six tamariki ranging in age from 10 through to 28 with 3 mokopuna, Ariana’s whakapapa connects her to Rongomaiwahine, Ngati Kahungungu, Ngati Turumakina and Ngati Whakaue.
Currently residing in the heart of Te Arawa – Rotorua, Arianas’ current mahi is as the Iwi Coordinator for the Te Arawa Housing Accord. As a kaupapa driven wahine, this mahi aligns with her values and enables her to continue walking in the path of those who have come before her. Her contribution to the Public and Community sectors spans more than two decades across Australasia, including roles in Event Management, Youth Service, Business Development and Employment and Recruitment. As the Founder and Managing Director of Te Oha Training and Employment, Ariana believes in the strength of sustainable employment as a vehicle to whanau achieving their dreams and aspirations. Te Oha was built on the foundation of whanau and is held up by the pou of Manaakitanga, Aroha, Tika and Pono – being true to oneself, truthful to others, loving with open arms and caring for the world around us – starting with us.
At home Ariana is “mum” “nanny” “grandma” “sis” or “girl” – she is a staunch and unapologetic advocate for social justice, doing the right thing and creating safe spaces for whanau and mokopuna voice. She is a day 1 Warriors supporter, loves a good action movie and is most proud of her greatest achievement in life – her whanau.