Born and raised South-side, storm recovery navigator Obed Havea is breaking down barriers for storm-impacted people in Māngere and across the south through targeted engagement.
“From Zumba classes, to coordinating door-knocking and speaking at his local church, Obed is a legend. Alongside his team, he makes us proud by spending his days helping numerous individuals and whānau affected by the 2023 storms,” says Recovery Navigator Service Manager, Manu Joyce.
South Auckland was hit hard. Māngere, one of our three recovery priority areas, was hit especially hard.
These communities are often underserved, so Obed and the team use their local knowledge and values to connect and build trust with these communities.
The team’s mahi has enabled many impacted people in these communities to access the services they need for their recovery.
Obed says: “Being a South Auckland boy, I lived in Māngere for eight years and attended De La Salle College on Grey Ave, before moving to Takaanini where I’ve lived ever since.”
Speaking about his recent talk at the church he grew up in, Obed says: “Our reverend invited me to speak. Culturally, I had to prepare myself as this was my first time speaking in front of the whole congregation. It was nerve racking, but I felt proud cause mum was proud and shed a tear. The church elders were appreciative because I’m creating pathways for our Tongan youth who know they too can work in office jobs like the Recovery Office and support families.”
Manu Joyce, says “Every day, I have the privilege of seeing Obed and the team’s passion and commitment as they go out and meet with whānau. We want to make sure that every person still impacted by the storms can access our support.”
Ever humble, when asked how it feels to be working in the community where he grew up, Obed says: “I feel a sense of pride and gratification knowing I can make a small difference with the work we do in recovery. I’m not about being praised or getting recognised, but this work helps me feel connected to my parents. My Dad who has now passed was the type of person who would go above and beyond to help anyone. He epitomised ‘giving the shirt off your back’ and was always involved in helping the Tongan community. Working as a navigator gives me the opportunity to be one with my Dad spiritually and mentally.”
Are you or someone you know still struggling after the storms last year?
You don’t have to go through this alone.
Get in touch by filling out our Navigator Referral Form, sending us an email at navigators@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz, phoning us at 09 884 2070 or visiting us at an upcoming drop-in clinic at a community facility near you.
Our free service is delivered through the Tāmaki Makaurau Recovery Office.
