Mā mua ka kite a muri, mā muri ka ora a mua.
Those who lead give sight to those who follow, those who follow give life to those who lead.
Candis Brunning is one of four outstanding rangatahi kahukura honoured for their inspirational mahi at the E Tū Whānau Ann Dysart Kahukura Award ceremony held at Ōrongomai Marae, Upper Hutt on 1 July 2026.
Candis is Youth Leader and Tuakana Lead Whānau Ora Navigator at Te Hapori Ora – The Village of Wellbeing in Taupō-nui-a-Tia, where she plays a pivotal role in supporting rangatahi development, whānau wellbeing and community empowerment.
This warm, enthusiastic and joyful young woman mentors, advocates, and walks alongside rangatahi from all backgrounds, helping them to realise their potential and develop a strong sense of identity and belonging.
“Candis represents the very essence of what the E Tū Whānau Kahukura Awards seek to acknowledge. She exemplifies all the E Tū whānau values. And upholds the kirimana in everyday life.”
Kim Eriksen-Downes, Kaituruki Ora, Te Hapori Ora
Candis Brunning – Leader, mentor, advocate
Candis’ exceptional commitment to the values of E Tū Whānau, Whānau Ora and kaupapa Māori practice were already obvious when she attended her first Te Hapori Ora wananga as a senior student at Taupo’s Tauponuiatia College.
Since then, she’s grown into a respected leader, mentor and advocate, walking alongside others as they navigate their own journeys of growth, healing and transformation.
Candis now has extensive practical experience supporting whānau through advocacy, navigation, wellbeing initiatives and community development, helping people access support, strengthen their wellbeing and achieve their aspirations.
Walking alongside whānau and rangtahi
Candis gained a Diploma in Whānau Ora and has an Indigenous Practitioner, Iwi Kaiwhakaruruhau qualification. Next year, she begins studying for a counselling degree.
Aged 23, Candis already embodies the qualities of a true kaiārahi, demonstrating empathy, professionalism and a willingness to go above and beyond for those she serves. She is part of a new generation of Māori leaders who are creating positive change by serving their communities and investing in the strength of whānau.
She’s committed to a long-term vision of strengthening whānau wellbeing and creating sustainable positive change within our communities.
Candis is an inspiring role model for rangatahi and other young leaders. She’s living proof that growth, service, and leadership emerge through commitment to both personal transformation and collective wellbeing.
