Governance

To maintain our financial sustainability, we hold structured monthly meetings to review budgets, monitor forecasts, and reconcile spending against planned allocations. This consistent oversight ensures we stay on track with our kaupapa and deliver on our promises with integrity. Our quarterly meetings with external advisors allow us to reflect on the bigger picture—covering tax, legal compliance, and strategic financial planning—so that we remain future-ready, accountable, and aligned with our long-term goals.

We’re backed by trusted advisors: Deepak Ratti, a seasoned financial expert with over 26 years in banking, and Dave Ananth, our honorary solicitor with legal and tax expertise in both Aotearoa and Malaysia. Their input, alongside support from our external accountants and on-demand solicitors, strengthens our reporting and governance systems. With Xero-based financial tracking and a commitment to transparency, we ensure every decision supports the Trust’s integrity, impact, and long-term sustainability.

Why & How

We aspire to being a leader and supporting the wellbeing of our people within our community as Mana Whenua we believe that we are responsible for assisting Maori and Pacific Islanders to achieve equity with non-Maori, both building our unique strengths and cultures in order to improve the lives of our Fanau.

Accordingly, our objective is to:

Improve the living conditions of our Fanau
Improve employment prospects in preparation for the same
Assist Fanau with access to financial support
Assist the Fanau in accessing health support where required
Reduce inequality
Assist our Fanau and their own aspirations to enhance their wellbeing and to maintain respected relationships in the broader community.

Team

Maranga Fanau is managed at two levels:

Trustees of the Charitable Trust

Krystle Phillys Latu
Merrin Grace Brown
Pyllis Grace Latu
Teokotai William Brown
Amanda Narita Pai

Management

Phyllis Latu tends to have the big picture and has tremendous skills at coordinating, orchestrating events and liaising with a wide spectrum of individuals and organisations.
Amanda Pai focusses on the administration side overseeing the accounts, and revenue and liaising with external advisors.

At Maranga Fanau, our people are our strength—and that starts with strong leadership and governance. We take financial responsibility, legal compliance, and transparent reporting seriously. Monthly meetings track our progress, budgets, and service quality, ensuring we remain accountable and impactful. Our aspirational Charters reflect a deep commitment to integrity, quality, and long-term sustainability. We’re proud to be supported by professional advisors including Dave Ananth, our honorary solicitor with broad legal and tax experience in NZ and Malaysia, and Deepak Ratti, a seasoned financial advisor with over 26 years in banking. Their guidance, along with support from external accountants and Xero-based reporting, keeps us future-focused and financially sound.

The Trust is governed by a passionate board of trustees: Krystle Phillys Latu, Merrin Grace Brown, Pyllis Grace Latu, Teokotai William Brown, and Amanda Narita Pai. Together, they set the kaupapa that guides our work.

Operationally, Maranga Fanau is driven by a small, dedicated team. Phyllis Latu brings big-picture thinking, coordinating events and relationships across communities and organisations. Amanda Pai leads on the administrative front—managing finances, overseeing revenue, and working closely with our professional advisors. With clear vision and trusted leadership at every level, our people are the heart of our kaupapa.

[email protected]

PHYLLIS LATU

DIRECTOR

I am a trusted person who helps connect individuals and family with community and government support, acting as a link to resourses and services, I speak up for the needs of people and communities. Working together with other organizations and agencies we help each other strenghten our community networks.

Mission Statement:

To build a resilient community.
Collabortating with local orginizations, businesses and residents.
To create safe spaces for our community.
To lead by example, demonstrating integrity, honesty and positive enviroments.

[email protected]

KRYSTLE LATU

KAI MANAAKI

I am very driven and passionate when it comes to our rangatahi, Elderly and our wider community, especially the ones that are finding it hard with all life endeavours. I have experience working with so many rangatahi where I help and guide them towards their goals.

Mission Statement:

To encourage and give all rangatahi the chance to learn and lead.
To show them the potential that they have to give there all.
All rangatahi have the confidence I just like to show them how to bring it to the surface and shine.

MERRIN BROWN

YOUTH WORKER

I am an experienced Teacher but have now transistioned into youth work I love inspiring students, aswell as making sure everyone feels welcomed in the classroom. Im excellent at improving student peformance by using different teaching methods by creating engaging lessons.

Mission Statement:

To help continuous learning.
To keep up with the best educational practices.
To communicate and listen.
To create a safe place for all students.
To be patience and empathetic.
To be involed in our community.

[email protected]

TAI BROWN

SOCIAL WORKER

I am a dedicated social worker supporting vunerable families in the community and individuals in New Zealand, I have a good background in assessment, case management, Advocacy, crisis Intervention all while maintaining commitment to ethical practices and social justice

Mission Statement:

To create a culturally Responsive and trauma-informed enviroment.
To enable a safe and supported space.
To empower them on their journey.
To help navigate them on achieving their goal.