Discover the leader in you

We transform the way leaders think, to transform the lives of the people they lead

Whether you’re leading a team or looking to grow in your own career, the cost of doing nothing is higher than you think.

For business leaders:
Do your leaders spend more time reacting to problems than driving proactive and meaningful change?
Is your workplace culture thriving with authenticity, or is it struggling under approaches that don’t align with your people?

For aspiring leaders:
Do you find yourself doing the same work, year after year, without feeling a real sense of progress or fulfillment?
How much longer can you afford to operate without clarity, purpose, and confidence? Are you ready to push past the limits of your role?

You’re not alone. In New Zealand, 71% of businesses struggle to find skilled leaders to meet their organisational needs
(Deloitte 2022 Global Human Capital Trends Report)

With Whakaaro Leaders, you’ll get the tools to turn these questions into success stories.

 

“Through what we learn at Whakaaro, I can see how we can create great leaders.”

Cheryl Wilson, General Manager, Tūhoe Hauora

“I have literally watched my team transform before my eyes.”

Mary Jane Araroa, Head Coach, Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic

“By understanding your own power of influence, you have the ability to impact and inspire others.”

Kim Brown, General Manager, Vitruvius

 
 

What We Do

We provide a safe space for leaders to learn through Te Ao Māori, helping them explore themselves and grow.
Sharing formative moments from their own life journey, each leader will experience shared vulnerability with the cohort, leading to a deep sense of connection and a confidence in the strength of their own past to enable a better future.

 
 

The Power of Experience

Whakaaro comprises professionals experienced in achieving leadership excellence, having delivered exceptional outcomes for the people and organisations we serve.

We are not theoreticians, but leaders still operating ‘in the fire’.

We provide programs founded in the unique culture of Aotearoa New Zealand, weaving the values of Te Ao Māori together with proven leadership development. We simplify leadership by focusing on real experiences, shared vulnerability, and deeper understanding.  

We believe:

1. Leadership is not a title or position; it is a behaviour.
2. Knowledge dispels fear.
3. Great leaders do not create followers; they create other great leaders.

 
 

Core Outcomes

Participants will be empowered to;

  1. Inspire – Inspire people with compelling stories that influence others’ thinking.

  2. Navigate – Tools and techniques to navigate personal and professional change at an accelerated rate.

  3. Connect – Connect with people and culture to deliver greater outcomes for business, community, whānau and self.