Waikato-Based Supports for Neurodivergent Aakonga and their Whaanau

I am Cari Emslie, a specialist teacher in the Waikato Region, and I’m excited to share this resource with you. This website is designed to be an up-to-date, accessible platform for whaanau of aakonga with complex needs in Waikato, providing essential information about schooling, healthcare, and local support services.

This site was developed as part of my research for Massey University’s Postgraduate Diploma in Specialist Teaching. Through a survey with whaanau (families) and a focus group with specialist kaiako, my findings revealed that many local whaanau and kaiako face difficulties in accessing timely, accurate and up-to-date information. In response, this website aims to offer a user-friendly resource that can be shared with others as a guide/ tool to support contact with the necessary support during times of need.

Your feedback is welcomed and can be shared below.