Investing in wellbeing and connection
Supporting wellbeing, Northpower brought teams together through Hyrox and Round the Bays, fostering connection, teamwork and a strong workplace culture.
Annual Report 2026
28 May 2026
Nobody goes it alone at Northpower
Northpower’s Kaitiaki Network is a group of over 30 of our people committed to supporting our team, upholding our behaviours, and driving positive change around mental health within Northpower.
Volunteers from all across the business give their time, often outside of regular hours, to check-in on colleagues, build relationships, and connect people to resources or professional help when it’s needed — bridging the gap between te pō (the darkness, the threats) and te ao (the light).
The past year has been a significant one for the Kaitiaki Network. What started as something with limited structure is now a clearly defined, supported programme. We have developed a Kaitiaki Position Description, established clear key performance indicators and introduced mandatory requirements for members to be both Mental Health First Aid and Domestic Violence first response accredited — both of which were previously optional.
In addition to this, our new Kaitiaki also move through a full onboarding process and buddy programme, so they’re supported as they learn how to support others. It’s a genuine commitment, and our Kaitiaki give it their all — attending regular group check-ins and dedicating meaningful time together at our annual two-day hui.
Connecting kaitiaki to kaitiaki
In June 2025, the Kaitiaki Network gathered in Raglan for their annual hui. The two days offered a meaningful opportunity to connect kanohi ki te kanohi, strengthen relationships, and reflect on our shared purpose as Kaitiaki. The time together was invaluable, not only for connection, but for the space it created to grow individually and collectively.
A core focus of the hui was professional development, with dedicated sessions designed to deepen capability in the Kaitiaki role — particularly around peer support. These sessions equipped our Kaitiaki with practical tools and strategies to better support colleagues across the business, while reinforcing the importance of safety, empathy, and active listening.
Beyond individual growth, the hui gave the opportunity to reflect on how the team can collectively strengthen the Kaitiaki Network’s impact within Northpower. Through workshops and open discussion, the group worked together to shape a clearer pathway forward – one that defines our deliverables and ensures our mahi is recognised and supported across the business.
One of the highlights of the hui was the genuine sense of whanaungatanga (connection) that filled the room. It was a space where laughter was shared, challenges were acknowledged, and support flowed freely. That spirit reinforced the unique bond within our Kaitiaki Network – one grounded in mutual respect, shared purpose, and pride in the work we do.
Ready to show up when it matters
Since the hui, we have run regular workshops to ensure every member of our network holds current qualifications in Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) and Domestic Violence First Response (DVFree). We are proud to announce that 80% of our network is now fully qualified, with the remaining 20% forecast to be qualified by the end of 2026.
MHFA is an evidence-based training programme available across 24 countries. It equips individuals with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to meaningfully support a friend, family member, or colleague through a mental health problem or crisis.
Our DVFree First Responder qualification is delivered through our partnership with Shine Education & Training, equipping our team to support safer experiences for people navigating domestic and family violence.
Our Kaitiaki Network is growing stronger, and our people are feeling more supported and connected to real support options within the business. As we prepare for our next annual hui, we do so with renewed energy, sharper capability, and a deeper commitment to our Kaupapa — because when our people are well, Northpower is stronger.
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