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Who are we?

At Family Link, we offer support and education for whānau of people experiencing mental unwellness and/or addictions. We are based in Tauranga in the Bay of Plenty, and cover the area from Waihi beach in the North, Ōtamarakau in the South and the Kaimai Ranges in the West.

Our Vision

A future where whānau are heard, understood, respected and included in the recovery journey of
their loved ones, fostering a compassionate and effective approach to mental health and addiction recovery.

Our Mission

To prioritise opportunities, knowledge, and support for whānau, respecting the unique cultural contexts of individuals, but also strengthening the capacity of families to play a supportive and active role in promoting wellbeing.

Our Values

  • Whānau wellbeing

  • Kindness and respect

  • Whānau inclusion

Meet the team

Brian Thomas Trust Manager

Brian Thomas

Trust Manager
07 577 1457 ext 1
brian@familylink.co.nz

Trish Thobis, Whānau Social Worker

Trish Thobis

Whānau Social Worker
07 577 1457 ext 2
trish@familylink.co.nz

Hitomi Taweerat, Whānau Worker

Hitomi Ochiai

Whānau Worker
07 577 1457 ext 4
hitomi@familylink.co.nz

Kate Pemberton, Child and Youth Worker

Kate Pemberton

Child and Youth Worker
07 577 1457 ext 3
kate@familylink.co.nz

Our Trustees

Mountains and Sun

John Douglas - Chair

John joined the Western Bay of Plenty Mental Health Trust in the mid 1990’s when he was District Inspector of Mental Health for the Bay of Plenty. He had an 18 month sojourn overseas mid 2004 and returned as a Trustee in November 2006. John is a recently retired Barrister who has practiced law in Tauranga since 1981 and specialised in family law and youth crime. He is also interested in education, having spent twelve years as a Trustee on various school boards.

 

Patricia Jones - Trustee 

Patricia has lived in the BOP since the 1970’s and thinks it is the best place in NZ. Married with 3 adult children, Patricia holds a contract as District Inspector for Mental Health from the Ministry of Health and has been a Trustee since October 2005. Patricia’s hobbies include horse trekking, tramping and travel.

 

Alan Withy - Trustee

Alan is proud to serve as a Trustee of this organisation that supports and helps people at times of special need. He brings some experience with mental health issues in his own family, together with a career

in business and service on numerous commercial and
not-for-profit boards.

 

Alan has been a Trustee since February 2005. His strengths are in the analytical, strategic and planning areas, based on tertiary qualifications in dispute resolution, governance, and management
and planning.

Geoff Andrews - Trustee

Geoff has been a Trustee since February 2003. Geoff is married to Denise and has 3 adult children. He considers himself fortunate to be enjoying a fulfilling and exciting life and is a Trustee because he has the opportunity to give something back to our community.

 

Geoff has had a successful business career having managed a number of businesses. He holds numerous tertiary qualifications and is a qualified director. Within the trust, Geoff undertakes the usual Trustee responsibilities as well as overviewing the Trusts financial performance.

Meagan Holmes - Trustee

With a diverse background spanning community, local and central government, and health sectors, Meagan is dedicated to fostering social justice and advancing community development. Her professional journey has instilled a strong belief in the power of collaborative efforts with communities to tackle their pressing challenges. Beyond professional endeavours, Meagan enjoys gardening, pilates, and bobbin lace making. Additionally, Meagan serves on the board of the Tauranga Community Food Bank, contributing to the welfare of our local community. 

 

"Working alongside Family Link, providing vital support to families and whānau navigating mental health and addiction issues is as rewarding as it is challenging. It is a privilege to be able to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need."

 

Andrei Naidoo - Trustee

Andrei has over a decade’s experience in financial services in New Zealand including business banking and advisory services. Previous Governance experience includes being Chairman of Board of Trustees of the Golden Sands School. He lives in Papamoa to be as close to the water as he can.

Currently he is the Chief Operating Officer of Quantum BOP, a specialized financial services organization. He has a strong understanding of regulatory requirements and best practices to enhance transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct. He says, “Good governance is the foundation for ethical decision making and long-term sustainability in any organisation”.  Andrei is a MBA graduate from the University of Cape Town and also has a New Zealand Certificate in Financial Services.

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