Arataki Ministries began as a work of the Whangarei Central Baptist Trust in 1991. Several larger institutions closed, and a need was identified for services for tangata whai ora (people with a mental health diagnosis) and people who were struggling with addictions.

Arataki Ministries prides itself on putting people and their whanau first. We believe that all people have the ability to live a full meaningful life and we are committed to supporting people on their wellbeing journey.The name “Arataki” was suggested by the first Kaumatua/Kuia for the organisation. The name means “to lead, guide or steer” and also “A place of challenge”.

As the name suggests, Arataki Ministries believes in listening to voices of tangata whai ora and their whanau. Arataki Ministries is a person-centered organization where our approaches are support and guidance that leads to people’s own decision making and empowerment which assists people to move towards what is important to them.

Initially the service was run by John Pulman and Pauline Causley, but the service grew, and more staff were employed. In 1995, Arataki was offered a contract to support people living in their own accommodation in the community – now known as Community Support Work (CSW).

The programme grew under the guidance of committed people from the Whangarei Central Baptist Church. Arataki Ministries became a charitable company with a Board of Directors, a strong affiliation with the Central Baptist Church remains with the constitution requiring that members of the Whangarei Central Baptist Church make up the majority of the Board of Directors.

Robert Coats was elected as the first CEO in June 1995. Administrative staff were employed to meet the growing service needs.

Since Robert stepped down from his role, there have been three CEO’s, Louis Tousain, Pip Rea and currently Deidré Nel.

Arataki Ministries is a faith-based organisation, and many of the staff have a Christian faith. Arataki both respect and value all people from different cultures and backgrounds. We acknowledge the Treaty of Waitangi/Te Tiriti o Waitangi as not only a historical document, but also a living one that guides the relationship between Māori and other peoples in Aotearoa New Zealand.