2 days ago
When a seat at the table brings safety and security
Ōtepoti-Dunedin Whānau Refuge practice manager Claire Horwell (front) with fellow staff members (from left) Destiny Crawford and Zara Robinson, Otago Polytechnic Māori Development and Kaitohutohu Office kaiwhakatere (manager) William Woolnough, and He Toki carpentry trades students Wokie, Jayden Kilgour-Kohey and Taungapeau Finau (rear) on picnic tables built by He Toki students. PHOTO: GERARD O'BRIEN
They may just look like picnic tables, but for Dunedin families escaping domestic violence, they represent places of safety and security.
The tables were built by Otago Polytechnic He Toki carpentry trades students and were given to the Ōtepoti-Dunedin Whānau Refuge yesterday.
Refuge practice manager Claire Horwell said the people in the refuge's safe house were there because they were in imminent danger from family violence.
"For those families going into our safe house, these tables provide a space outside for them to get some sunshine, get some fresh air and watch the children while they play, give mum a break, give their brains a reset and help them find some normalcy again.
"To receive these picnic tables is amazing. It's such a cool thing to have, and to show that it's our community that has supported us.
"It's not something that we as an organisation can afford to do ourselves, so it's going to mean a lot to the families," she said.
The polytechnic's He Toki carpentry trades training programme is for Māori and Pasifika students, working towards a New Zealand certificate in construction trade skills (level 3) in carpentry.
Otago Polytechnic Māori Development and Kaitohutohu Office kaiwhakatere (manager) William Woolnough said it had been a positive experience for all involved.
"This kaupapa strengthens community connections while giving our learners a chance to contribute meaningfully to a local cause.
"PlaceMakers Dunedin came on board with materials and support, making this a great example of industry and education working together for social good."
