After retiring last year, one of Te Tairāwhiti and Te Matau-a-Māui’s most accomplished Cook Island Māori policemen is now addressing social issues from a new perspective.
On Monday, Tamuera Sam Aitama Aberahama, the former Gisborne Tairāwhiti Area Commander, had a tūrou at Pukemokimoki Marae in Napier as he transitioned to his new role as Chief Executive at Whatever It Takes Trust (WIT).
WIT provides support in Hawke’s Bay for people experiencing mental health challenges and addictions, offering services such as support workers, professional health workers, property and tenancy management, service management, and business leadership.
Aberahama told Hawke’s Bay Today he is facing the challenges of homelessness with eyes and ears wide open, highlighting WIT’s recent efforts to place clients in suitable supported living environments.
Aberahama was recognized with a New Year Honour in 2021 for his services to the New Zealand Police and the community.
