We are delighted to announce that Whāraurau, the national centre for workforce development for the Infant, Child and Adolescent Mental Health sector (ICAMH), will transfer from UniServices, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Waipapa Taumata Rau | University of Auckland, to the Wise Charitable Trust. The Wise Charitable Trust, together with its whānau of charitable subsidiaries, is collectively known as the Wise Group.
Whāraurau will join the Wise Group from 1 January 2026, where it will continue its mahi alongside mental health and addiction (MH&A) workforce centres Te Pou and Blueprint for Learning, and Le Va.
The move is happening as part of wider strategic changes at UniServices, which will enable a focus on the growth and commercialisation of the University of Auckland’s research. As part of this, UniServices sought an external organisation that could uphold and grow Whāraurau’s important kaupapa. The Wise Group was selected as the receiving partner to carry this work forward.
Shared values, specialist expertise
Greg Murison, CEO at UniServices, said: “We are pleased that we have found a fantastic new home for Whāraurau, with the transfer of Whāraurau to the Wise Group representing a significant milestone for New Zealand’s mental health and addiction sector.
“Whāraurau and the Wise Group have a shared history based on partnership and leadership. We have worked alongside each other for more than 20 years, sharing a deep commitment to people, whānau and communities, and to the mental health and addiction workforce that supports them to thrive.”
Shelley Campbell, Pou Arorangi – Chief Executive of the Wise Group, said the group is excited to welcome Whāraurau, its people, mission, and future impact.
“Having three specialist workforce development centres in the Wise Group offers new opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing, while maintaining the unique focus and specialisation of each entity.”
Shaping the future of workforce development
This move ensures even closer collaboration between the MH&A workforce centres, driving innovation and efficiencies to benefit the whole sector.
Together, MH&A workforce centres Whāraurau, Te Pou and Blueprint for Learning, and Le Va will connect expertise across the MH&A lifespan – from early childhood and adolescence through to eldercare. This connection will provide seamless, tailored workforce development for kaimahi and organisations working with people at any life stage.
A continued partnership with Te Rau Ora, a respected and significant leader of Māori MH&A workforce kaupapa, is also an important part of the journey ahead.
The transfer of Whāraurau to the Wise Group will be carefully managed to ensure Whāraurau can continue to deliver great services and activities within the sector.
As part of the Wise Group, all three workforce centres will continue to champion excellence in workforce development, ensuring that those who dedicate their careers to supporting others have access to the best possible training, resources, and support.
Published on: 21 October 2025