Here Toitū is a free employment support service that helps eligible people overcome barriers to work, improve their wellbeing, and move towards sustainable employment. Through personalised support, skills development, industry-led training, and connections with local employers, Here Toitū works alongside participants to create pathways into meaningful work. 

When Regan first connected with the Here Toitū team in January 2026, he already had a strong foundation for a career in hospitality. He had completed the New Zealand Certificate in Food and Beverage Services (Level 4) Restaurant Services, along with Level 3 qualifications in Café Services and Function Services. He had also successfully completed Here Toitū's Super Six programme, become an active member of the Here Toitū Job Club, and recently added the Barista 101 two-day course to his growing list of achievements. 

Despite his qualifications and enthusiasm, Regan faced a challenge familiar to many job seekers: employers were looking for experience, yet gaining that experience without being given an opportunity can be difficult. 

"Regan came to Here Toitū with qualifications, motivation and a clear passion for hospitality, but like many people seeking employment, needed the chance to gain practical experience," says Here Toitū Employment Broker, Ally Attwell. 

During a mock interview with the Here Toitū team, Regan's genuine passion for coffee quickly became apparent. It was clear that making great coffee was more than just an interest; it was something he wanted to build a career around. He spoke enthusiastically about developing his skills, particularly his goal of mastering latte art. 

Recognising Regan's motivation and potential, Ally worked alongside a local café to create an opportunity aligned with his interests and career aspirations. 

Regan has now begun a four-week paid work experience placement at a local café, where he can put his training into practice, build confidence in a real workplace, and gain the valuable experience employers are seeking. 

"By working closely with local employers, we're able to create opportunities that help people build confidence, strengthen their skills and move towards sustainable employment. We're proud to support Regan on his journey and grateful to the businesses that partner with us to invest in local talent," adds Rowena Weth, Here Toitū Programme Manager. 

Whether the placement leads directly to permanent employment or provides the practical experience and strong references needed to open new doors, it represents an important step towards achieving his employment goals. 

Here Toitū is about more than filling vacancies. It's about recognising strengths, creating meaningful opportunities, and connecting people with employers who are willing to invest in potential. 

We look forward to seeing where Regan's journey takes him and watching his passion for coffee continue to grow. 

Here Toitū: Referrals Welcome 

Here Toitū continues to deliver positive outcomes for participants across the MidCentral region, and referrals are welcome through a range of pathways. 

Key features of the service include: 

• No current waitlist 
• Wrap-around, integrated support that addresses the wider determinants of health 
• A focus on improving hauora while preparing for and securing sustainable employment 

For information about the service, eligibility criteria, and referral options, visit: 

www.thinkhauora.nz/here-toitu 

Referral pathways 

• Community and self-referrals: via the Here Toitū webpage 
• General practice teams: via PMS referral or the Here Toitū webpage 
• Work and Income case managers: via the dedicated referral form 

This service welcomes referrals from eligible people seeking support to improve their wellbeing and employment opportunities.