Real change often only comes when we really listen. For Matiu*, that shift in approach made all the difference.
Matiu, of Ngāi Tahu descent, entered secure psychiatric care at just 15 years old. He had his 16th birthday in the unit. Around the same time, his mother was diagnosed and subsequently passed away from terminal cancer. This loss added fuel to an already volatile time in his life.
Matiu began absconding frequently and reoffending. His behaviour was labelled high risk. For years, the system responded with punishment, focusing on what he did wrong, rather than why he was struggling. The results didn’t change.
When Ka Puta Ka Ora Emerge Aotearoa began working with him, we tried a new approach. Instead of treating his actions in isolation, kaimahi looked at Matiu as a whole person, spending time understanding how his neurodivergence influences his choices and what unmet needs might sit beneath his behaviour.
Matiu’s key workers also noticed that his most high-risk periods occurred in the late afternoon and early evening, so they introduced consistent, one-on-one support in place from 6–9pm.
With patience, listening, and connection during the times he needed it most, trust began to build. Kaimahi introduced future-focused and practical rewards for positive behaviour, designed around things Matiu loved, such as trips to cricket matches. With kaimahi guidance, Matiu even planned his own visit to Hanmer Springs – a major milestone in decision-making and responsibility.
Slowly, things began to change. Matiu’s patterns softened and his volatility decreased. And over time, something powerful happened: he stopped running and stopped reoffending.
Now 24, Matiu is building a different kind of life. He’s forming a stronger connection with his aunt and is preparing to move in with his stepdad. He’s working toward getting his driver’s licence, looking for a job and establishing everyday routines that support his wellbeing.
Matiu’s story shows what can happen when Emerge Aotearoa kaimahi lead with Whakawhanaunga (connecting with purpose), Ako (walking and learning together), Manaaki (engaging with respect), and Whakamana (acting with integrity).
By asking “what do you need?” instead of “what’s wrong with you?”, our kaimahi helped shift the trajectory of a young man’s life.
How Emerge Aotearoa kaimahi supported Matiu:
- Shifted from punishment to connection. Focused on understanding the root causes of Matiu’s behaviour rather than simply responding to the outcomes.
- Adapted support around neurodivergence and risk patterns. Identified high-risk windows and provided consistent evening support, improving safety and stability.
- Built trust through relationship-based practice. Took time to truly understand how Matiu thinks and communicates, meeting him on his terms.
- Used meaningful, future-focused incentives. Helped Matiu plan personal, goal-oriented activities like trips and sports events to reinforce progress.
- Reduced offending and absconding. Since engaging with Emerge Aotearoa, Matiu has not reoffended or absconded – a major change from previous years.
- Supported long-term transition into adulthood. Worked with Matiu as he reconnects with whānau, plans his move to independent living and works toward employment and routine.
*Name changed to protect the privacy of the individual.