Ngā Moemoeā | VisionTo create a world where tangata whaikaha /disabled people and their whānau can dare to dream.
Who We Are
Kaupapa | MissionTo walk alongside tangata whaikaha /disabled people and their whānau, empowering them to be self-managing by living the eight principles of Enabling Good Lives.
Pae Tawhiti | AimTo provide services grounded in the Māori model of health, Te Whare Tapa Whā. We work alongside tangata whaikaha /disabled people and their whānau to build confidence and resilience, and to ensure the right support is in place to achieve goals, explore possibilities, and turn dreams into reality; with choice, control, and a life shaped by each person’s dreams.
“I want our services to reflect real lives, not just policies. When people walk through our doors, they should feel like they belong.”
Kylie Matena (Co-founder)
Kylie Matena
1986-2021
Co-founder of Ngā Moemoeā Services
Kylie Matena was a visionary, a mother, a student, and a fierce advocate for inclusive, whānau-centred care. As someone who lived with a disability, Kylie brought lived experience, insight, and compassion to everything she touched. She was studying toward a Bachelor of Health Science and Psychology, driven by a desire to uplift others and create services that reflected real lives.
Together with her mother Vivienne Martin, Kylie co-founded Ngā Moemoeā Services, an organisation based on Māori values, dedicated to blending cultural heritage, emotional support, and practical tools for both staff and clients. Her voice, her wairua, and her dreams are woven into the very fabric of the service.
Kylie passed away on 28 August 2021, during Aotearoa’s COVID-19 Level 4 lockdown. Her absence is deeply felt, yet her legacy continues to guide every step of Ngā Moemoeā Services.
Vivienne Martin - Founder
With over 30 years of experience working in the health and disability sector, my mahi has focused in supporting tangara whaikaha Māori/disabled people and their whānau. Through coordinating services, and advocating for inclusive, culturally grounded care, I understand the importance of creating an uplifting, empowering and reflective service.
From a career that has spanned key roles in IHC/IDEAS Services, Midcentral DHB, Youth Horizons, ENLIVEN NZ and Geneva Healthcare, my wish to provide a service culture where diversity is celebrated, Māori values are central and every person feels seen, supported and inspired.
Lathainia Lowrie - 2IC
I’ve worked for many years alongside tangata whaikaha /disabled people, their whānau, and communities.
My journey has taken me from supporting children with disabilities in early education, to regional sports organisations and Sport Manawatu, where I helped teens with disabilities stay active, build confidence, and have fun. I’ve also worked as a support worker, bringing a person-centred approach to everyday living supports.
