Where Whānau, Friends, and Community Come Together
Connection Starts Here
Common Grounds welcomes anyone seeking connection to step through the waharoa—the gateway to the marae ātea—and experience healing, manaakitanga, and oranga. For those who can’t come to us, we bring the waharoa to the community with pop-up coffee carts, marked by heart symbols at participating cafés.
We offer a smile, a caring conversation, and the simple question, “Kei te pēhea koe?”—how are you?—with kindness and respect. Our volunteers are trained in active listening, sharing our journey into Common Grounds Te Matau a Māui with whānau, friends, and communities. We especially focus on rural areas, connecting regularly to foster wellbeing and belonging wherever we go.
We will begin by focusing on Hastings and Napier, then expand across the wider Hawke’s Bay region. From there, we will engage national supporters who have connections to Hawke’s Bay or are aligned with kaupapa Māori wellbeing initiatives.
Contact us if your area could benefit from Common Grounds.
Get Involved
Be part of something that truly brings people together. Whether you give your time, make a donation, or simply share our story with others, it all makes a difference. Every act of support big or small helps strengthen our communities and reach those who need connection most.
Together, we can create meaningful, lasting change. One conversation, one coffee, and one community at a time.
A Place to Connect, Share, and Be Heard
A welcoming space for anyone and their whānau or supporters. Gather, connect, and access information in a safe, caring environment.
Let the coffee with a heart guide you—nourish the body, heart, and soul. Our trained volunteers offer a simple, heartfelt “Kei te pēhea koe?” – How are you?” and a listening ear.
We are not counsellors, but through a hot drink, a snack, and connection, we provide care and pathways to support. We especially aim to reach rural communities—contact us if your area could benefit from Common Grounds.
Our Mission
We begin and end with the ground on which we stand. Common Grounds was formed to enrich our community’s capacity to respond to growing wellbeing concerns. Common Grounds will create and grow healing spaces where people can connect and become well again. We will awhi - support each other along our journey towards a stronger, more connected community and we will share our collective knowledge to create environments for healing.
ti rearea teitei, kahikatea ka taea
Even the small rearea bird can ascend to the great heights of the Kahikatea tree.
Ascension to great heights is within reach for everyone, regardless of background and circumstance.
No matter who we are, we all need someone to listen. Connection matters.