What's our Kaupapa/Mission?

Te Whare Mīharo Ora Trust is New Zealand’s first purpose-built centre offering specialized after-school and holiday care for high-needs, neurodiverse children. We empower our tamariki in a safe, sensory-inclusive space while providing free, wraparound support, advice, and advocacy for their whānau.

What Makes Us Different

Sensory-Inclusive Environment

We create calm, low‑pressure spaces designed to reduce overwhelm and support regulation, so every young person can feel safe, grounded, and in control.

Neurodiversity - Affirming

We honour each child’s unique wiring. No fixing, no forcing — just understanding, acceptance, and support that celebrates who they are.

Small Group Support

Our small group model means real connection, personalised attention, and a space where kids can be themselves without the noise or pressure of big programmes.

Creativity & Life Skills Focus

We build confidence through hands‑on creativity and practical life skills, helping young people explore their strengths and discover what they’re capable of.

Our Approach to Care & Support

Sensory-Friendly Play

Gentle, hands-on sensory activities that support regulation, confidence and joyful learning.

Calm, Predictable Environment

A peaceful, structured space designed to reduce overwhelm and help Tamariki feel safe and settled

Neurodiverse tamariki building friendships in small supported groups at Mīharo Ora after-school programme Motueka NZ

Nurturing Friendships & Social Connection

Small, Supported groups that help Tamariki build friendships at there own pace, in there own way.

Understanding Big Emotions

Compassionate support during meltdowns transitions, and tough moments - with patience, empathy, and care.

Rainbows & Autism

Autism logos and symbols (such as the infinity symbol or the puzzle piece) often use rainbow colors to represent the diversity of the autism spectrum

autism is a broad spectrum, it means every individual has a unique combination of strengths, challenges, and experiences. The vibrant, varied colors of the rainbow highlight this individuality, emphasizing that autistic minds are whole and cannot be limited to a single trait or experience

NEURODIVERSITY

[neuro-dye-ver-si-tee_ noun

The range of differences in individual brain function and behavioral traits, regarded as part of normal variation in the human population

Enrol your neurodiverse child at Mīharo Ora after-school care and holiday programme Motueka — autism resources NZ

Enrolment, Employment & Volunteer Interest

Kia ora whānau — thank you for all the messages already coming in!
We’re blown away by the interest in our neurodiverse after‑school & holiday centre for Autistic and Asperger’s sensory kids.

We’re opening soon, and right now we’re gathering numbers for both child enrolments and staff/volunteer opportunities.
If you’ve messaged us, we’ve seen it — and we’ll be contacting everyone shortly with next steps.

Thank you for your patience while we get everything set up. Big things are coming for our rangatahi and community.

Register your Interest

Want to be Updated on the progress of our Centre for Registering Your Child or Employment Opportunities Please Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Mīharo Ora’s Winter Colour Run

Motueka turned out in full force for our very first Winter Colour Run, and the energy was unreal. Hundreds of locals braved the cold, burst through clouds of colour, and created a day filled with laughter, community spirit, and unforgettable moments.

The response was so incredible that this event is now officially becoming an annual Motueka tradition. Thank you to every runner, volunteer, sponsor, and whānau who made it happen — your support helps us continue building a brighter, more inclusive future for our neurodiverse tamariki.

Read All About it