Our HIPPY (Home Interaction Programme for Parents and Youngsters) coordinators from across New Zealand came together for a two-day conference packed with valuable training and insightful discussions.

This year's theme highlighted the importance of 'Connection and Collaboration' reflecting the whakataukī - ‘Nau te rourou, naku te rourou, ka ora ai te iwi : With your food basket and my food basket, the people will thrive'.

The HIPPY Conference provides our coordinators across New Zealand with an opportunity to come together, collaborate, and connect. Both conference days were filled with interactive and engaging activities, providing our team with essential skills for their roles as HIPPY Coordinators. The focus on the first day was on whakawhanuangatanga, highlighting the importance of building connections and deepening our understanding of one another. Various workshops covered topics such as role-play, recruitment, coaching skills, and more on the second day.

There was something truly special about learning from the diverse journeys and insights of each coordinator involved in the HIPPY programme. It not only broadened their creative practices but also strengthened the connections within the wider HIPPY NZ team. "The speakers and my colleagues shared so much knowledge and experience, making it a valuable opportunity," says the HIPPY Lower Hutt and Porirua Coordinator. 

 "The workshops were meaningful and practical, offering lessons the coordinators can take on board and share with their tutors", says HIPPY National Advisor.

"It's been great meeting people from different areas and having face-to-face interactions. That is the highlight of the past two days for me - getting the chance to meet everyone and connect in person," shared by HIPPY Palmerston North Coordinator.

“The past two days were insightful. Getting to know other coordinators, sharing our views, making connections, and knowing that we are all working towards the same goal has been one of my highlights.” says the HIPPY Papakura Coordinator.

Inspired by the success of the HIPPY Conference, our coordinators are eager to apply what they have learned and continue making a positive impact within our communities. "It's been inspiring, grounding, and a wonderful recharge for the rest of the year," says the HIPPY Regional Manager HIPPY (Central).