Maria Nu’utofia and her family relocated from Invercargill to Hamilton, leaving behind familiar connections and relying on their faith and K’aute Pasifika’s guidance to navigate the transition. Starting in emergency housing, their perseverance led them to secure a private rental and, ultimately, achieve the dream of homeownership.
A few years ago, Maria Nu’utofia and her family made the big decision to relocate from Invercargill in the South Island to Hamilton. It was a brave move — one filled with uncertainty, as they left behind all their familiar connections and support systems.
With no family nearby to lean on, they instead relied on their faith and the guidance of K’aute Pasifika to help them navigate this new chapter. Their new home started with emergency housing, until the family’s hard work and perseverance led them first to a private rental, and, more recently, to achieving the dream of homeownership.
Maria and her husband Falaniko have also simultaneously become registered business owners — a journey that has been made possible by their steadfast faith and relentless work ethic. Like many others, their path wasn’t without its challenges, especially in a new city without family nearby. But with support from Whānau Ora, the Waikato Pacific Business Network and K’aute Pasifika, they found the help they needed right from the beginning of their Hamilton journey.
"We are so grateful to K’aute Pasifika Whānau Ora team for the support and direction they've provided," Maria and Falaniko share, recognising the pivotal role staff have played in helping them reach this point.
Today, Maria’s vision has expanded from simply managing daily expenses to creating a foundation of prosperity for future generations. As the first in her family to reach these milestones of home and business ownership, she hopes to set a new standard, making what once felt improbable feel attainable. She dreams of passing this legacy on to her children, inspiring them and future generations to strive for even greater achievements.
“The story of the Nu’utofia family is one built on faithfulness and sheer determination,” says Foa Samuelu, Whānau Ora Navigator at K’aute Pasifika. “I have had the privilege of working alongside this family since they arrived in Hamilton and have seen them turn what was once a far-fetched dream into an embraced reality.”
The Nu’utofia family’s journey is a powerful reminder that with faith, determination, and the right support, no dream is out of reach.
If you would like to find out more about how we can help you and your family reach your potential please contact us today.