Dave Taylor

Meet Dave

Dave is our Kaimahi Whānau Support Worker, a shared role with Tikipunga High School as part of our ongoing partnership.

“Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini.”

Dave acknowledges the many people who have contributed to his journey in life.

He describes himself as a lifelong learner, pursuing qualifications not for employment or recognition, but to set an example for his whānau and wider community. He believes his professional sporting background and training as a qualified Social Worker have shaped the vehicle through which he supports marginalised whānau.

Dave has long stood as a strong advocate for Māori and for Māori leadership, championing pathways that uphold best practice and cultural integrity. With more than 20 years of experience as a social worker, he has learned many important life lessons. He believes that true success begins with a framework grounded in Whanaungatanga, Tikanga, and Manaakitanga as communities collectively strive toward Tino Rangatiratanga.

He chose to step into the role of Kaimahi Whānau Support Worker because of its unique design, which enables him to work from a strength‑based approach. This allows him to create more opportunities for students and their whānau to access specialist services, all while supporting educational success and mana‑enhancing outcomes.

Outside of mahi, Dave enjoys cooking, music, and travelling.