With around 1,000 locals coming through the door every year, Rānui Action Project‘s Swanson Road base is a vital community hub where residents go to access information, support services, activities and events.
‘Rānui Action Project (RAP) creates opportunities for residents to learn, connect, and thrive,’ says Jolene Mareko, RAP’s kaiwhakahaere (manager).
One of RAP’s most popular initiatives is the Get Licensed Learner Licence Course. This free programme helps residents learn the road code and work towards their learner, restricted and full driver licences. Gaining a licence can open doors to employment, training and greater independence.
‘Between July 2024 and June 2025, we held eight courses and helped 124 residents progress towards or achieve their licences,’ reports Jolene.
RAP also provides practical job-seeking assistance, from creating a CV and preparing for interviews to connecting people with local employers. The programme supported 73 residents last year alone.
Another valuable service is RAP’s partnership with Waitematā Community Law Centre, which provides free fortnightly legal clinics. These drop-in sessions ensure local people can access professional legal advice on a wide range of issues.
Alongside these support services, RAP delivers a variety of activities, programmes and community events that strengthen community connections. A recent Matariki celebration brought residents together to learn traditional Māori flax weaving, creating flowers and stars, and discovering more about Matariki through te reo Māori and te reo rotarota (sign language).
These are just some of the ways RAP helps strengthen communities across West Auckland. While based in Rānui, the organisation’s reach extends throughout the region, including Henderson, Massey and Swanson. ‘Residents from across these communities access our services and participate in events,’ says Jolene.
As a community development organisation, funding is always in short supply. However, $20,000 from this year’s Your West Support Fund will contribute towards the day-to-day operational costs that keep this community-led mahi running.
‘The funding will help ensure local people continue to have access to practical support, learning opportunities and community connections close to home,’ says Jolene.
Learn more about Rānui Action Project at ranui.org.nz or follow them on Facebook.
If you or your organisation could use support from The Trusts, find out how to apply at thetrusts.co.nz/our-funds.
