Community Champions
Conference 2026
May 15-17
About Community Champions
The Community Champions Conference was born in a time of crisis—but grounded in faith, compassion, and a calling to serve. In response to the ADRA Love Thy Neighbour initiative during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, 37 Seventh-day Adventist churches across New Zealand stepped forward in faith to meet the needs of their communities. In a season of uncertainty, they became the hands and feet of Jesus—bringing hope, dignity, and practical support to individuals and families facing job loss and hardship through grocery vouchers, power and mobile top-ups, and vital psychosocial care.What began as a response became a calling—and then a movement.As these Community Champions gathered to reflect, God placed a shared vision on their hearts: to remain connected, to encourage one another, and to be further equipped for His work. From this, the Community Champions Conference was established—a space where faith is strengthened, stories are shared, and people are empowered to serve their communities with greater purpose and impact.
Since its beginning in 2021 at Tui Ridge Park in Rotorua, the conference has continued to gather those passionate about serving others—online in 2022, returning in person in 2024, and most recently in 2025 at Te Mahurehure Marae in Auckland. Each gathering has been a testament to God’s faithfulness, deepening relationships, igniting vision, and strengthening a collective commitment to love our neighbours as Christ has called us to.As it says in Galatians 6:9, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” This verse continues to anchor and inspire the heart of the Community Champions movement.This is more than a conference—it is a faith-filled movement of people answering God’s call to serve, uplift, and transform communities together
Why You Should Attend the
Community Champions Conference 2026
01
Be Equipped to Serve
The event is designed to provide tools, knowledge, and inspiration for those who want to make a difference in their communities. Whether you are already involved or looking for ways to start, this is a great opportunity to learn how to engage more effectively.
02
Networking and Experience Sharing
The conference brings together people who share the same passion for positively impacting their communities. By attending, you can exchange experiences, discover new strategies, and even find partners for future projects.
03
A Strong History and Purpose
This event was birthed as a response to the Covid-19 pandemic, when 37 Seventh-day Adventist churches across New Zealand helped vulnerable individuals and families. Since then, it has been a valuable space for equipping and strengthening those who are passionate to be the hands and feet of Jesus in their local communities.
Hui 1
Serving from the Overflow
Felita Tuiavii
Felita Tuiavii serves as the Community Services and Health Ministries Leader in her local church and is a faith-based whole-person wellness & lifestyle coach and speaker. Known for her passion for prayer and authentic Christianity, she is deeply committed to equipping others to serve with strength, compassion, and practical wisdom. With a heart for our church’s health message, Felita believes effective ministry begins with spiritual vitality and faithful stewardship of mind and body. She integrates biblical truth and practical wellness principles to help individuals and communities serve sustainably – from overflow not overdraft.
Starting and running your church CTP project in the community can often feel exciting and engaging. Everything is going well. But what happens when you get stuck – when the project momentum starts running low or running out? “Starting with the END in mind” will give you practical tips to help sustain your CTP project, the people involved and the outcomes you want to achieve. Come and join us!
Learn how to mobilise your church to create impactful initiatives like community gardens and dining programmes. A practical session on engaging, equipping, and empowering people through God’s unfailing love and grace.
Hui 2:
The journey
to serving
Pa & Kiri
Pa & Kiri Rangiaho are a husband-and-wife team who are servant ministry leaders in our local SDA church in Murupara. Passionate about sharing the gospel, committed to strengthening lives through practical faith and service. Pa, shearer and bushman, brings real-life experience to the ministry. Kiri, social worker, brings a love for whānau wellbeing with a major in community development. Together, we also hold governance roles within the community, sitting on trust and health boards, contributing to strategic planning, and actively engaging in initiatives that strengthen local wellbeing. The ministry is not only spoken—but lived—through practical leadership and community involvement.
Through this hui, we'll share our journey in ministry—offering honest insights, lessons learned, and encouragement for those walking their own path of service.
“Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keeps the law, happy is he.” – Proverbs 29:18
Dr Iwi Te Whau
Dr Iwi Te Whau (PhD, HonPhD, MinsD) is an Ōkurei Māori Councillor with the Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council, based in Rotorua, New Zealand. He also serves as Chair of Korowai Aroha Health Centre and has previously worked as a Kaitakawaenga with the Ministry of Education. Iwi is deeply committed to serving his community, contributing to local council work, joining hui (both in person and online), and supporting grassroots initiatives. He is a much-loved and valued member of the Maranatha SDA Church mentored by the late Pr Tata Strickland. At the heart of all he does is his strong love for God and for people, which shapes his passion for service and leadership.
Hui 3:
Saved to Serve
Pr Andrew Hoeflich
Andrew is a passionate pastor and a true community champion. He’s deeply committed to serving God and others, both within the church and across the wider community. Over the years, he has led a range of impactful initiatives that bring people together and transforms lives— including SOLID kickboxing, community gardens, and community dining programmes, to name a few. With years of hands-on experience in engaging, equipping, and empowering people, Andrew is known for building strong relationships and creating spaces where people can connect and serve. Wherever he ministers, he has a gift for mobilising others and fostering meaningful community engagement, leaving a lasting and positive impact grounded in God’s unfailing love, grace, and mercy.
Starting and running your church CTP project in the community can often feel exciting and engaging. Everything is going well. But what happens when you get stuck – when the project momentum starts running low or running out? “Starting with the END in mind” will give you practical tips to help sustain your CTP project, the people involved and the outcomes you want to achieve. Come and join us!
Learn how to mobilise your church to create impactful initiatives like community gardens and dining programmes. A practical session on engaging, equipping, and empowering people through God’s unfailing love and grace.
Hui 4:
Service in Action
Equipping Communities to Thrive
Swanie Nelson
Swanie Nelson is a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in the community/youth, charitable trust, and business sectors. She is the founder of The Community Builders NZ Trust holding a degree in business. She has dedicated her career to empowering individuals and strengthening communities through education, advocacy, and support services. She is also a Westpac Women of Influence winner, a two time Kiwi Bank New Zealander of the year recipient and a Vodafone World of Difference recipient to name a few. She is the co-founder of Let’s Get Legal NZ, Swanie is passionate about equipping people with the knowledge and resources they need to achieve independence & thrive. Her expertise in community/youth work and business makes her a valuable leader in initiatives that promote equity, opportunity, and long-term success for individuals and communities alike.
Terry Nelson
Terry Nelson is a highly respected community and youth worker with a long-standing commitment to empowering rangatahi and whānau in South Auckland. With a degree in Careers and a strong background in youth development, Terry has dedicated his career to creating practical pathways for young people to succeed. He is the co-Founder and Facilitator of Let’s Get Legal NZ, an initiative focused on helping young people gain their driver licences and understand legal responsibilities, removing barriers to employment and independence. Through innovative digital engagement, Terry has become New Zealand’s No.1 TikTok drivers licence instructor, using social media to educate, motivate, and reach thousands of learners in a relatable and accessible way. Terry currently serves as a Careers Advisor at Tangaroa College, where he supports students to explore career pathways, build confidence, and connect education to real-world opportunities. He is also the Co-Founder of The Community Builders NZ Trust, an organisation dedicated to strengthening communities especially rangatahi. Grounded in lived experience and driven by purpose, Terry continues to champion opportunities that help young people move from potential to achievement.
Never heard of CTP (Community Transformation Parntnerships) or don’t quite understand what it’s all about? Come and learn about how you and your church can be equipped and supported. From ideas through to application tips, the Champions Network and more, come along and be inspired and equipped to courageously step out with love and compassion to meet the needs of your community.
Hui 5:
Serving with Purpose
From Potential to Achievement
Never heard of CTP (Community Transformation Parntnerships) or don’t quite understand what it’s all about? Come and learn about how you and your church can be equipped and supported. From ideas through to application tips, the Champions Network and more, come along and be inspired and equipped to courageously step out with love and compassion to meet the needs of your community.
Swanie Nelson
Swanie Nelson is a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in the community/youth, charitable trust, and business sectors. She is the founder of The Community Builders NZ Trust holding a degree in business. She has dedicated her career to empowering individuals and strengthening communities through education, advocacy, and support services. She is also a Westpac Women of Influence winner, a two time Kiwi Bank New Zealander of the year recipient and a Vodafone World of Difference recipient to name a few. She is the co-founder of Let’s Get Legal NZ, Swanie is passionate about equipping people with the knowledge and resources they need to achieve independence & thrive. Her expertise in community/youth work and business makes her a valuable leader in initiatives that promote equity, opportunity, and long-term success for individuals and communities alike.
Terry Nelson
Terry Nelson is a highly respected community and youth worker with a long-standing commitment to empowering rangatahi and whānau in South Auckland. With a degree in Careers and a strong background in youth development, Terry has dedicated his career to creating practical pathways for young people to succeed. He is the co-Founder and Facilitator of Let’s Get Legal NZ, an initiative focused on helping young people gain their driver licences and understand legal responsibilities, removing barriers to employment and independence. Through innovative digital engagement, Terry has become New Zealand’s No.1 TikTok drivers licence instructor, using social media to educate, motivate, and reach thousands of learners in a relatable and accessible way. Terry currently serves as a Careers Advisor at Tangaroa College, where he supports students to explore career pathways, build confidence, and connect education to real-world opportunities. He is also the Co-Founder of The Community Builders NZ Trust, an organisation dedicated to strengthening communities especially rangatahi. Grounded in lived experience and driven by purpose, Terry continues to champion opportunities that help young people move from potential to achievement.
Hui 6:
Intergenerational service in action
Sunday - May 17th
Real stories from street ministries and community breakfasts that are changing lives. Discover how to build genuine relationships and serve with compassion across all generations.
Naomi Saluni Tavau
"Naomi is a passionate community leader with extensive experience serving at all levels of the community. She is deeply committed to supporting others through compassion, faith, and purpose. As Co-Founder of Failoa Famili, Naomi brings people together and creates safe, inclusive spaces where individuals and families feel valued and empowered. She has led a range of initiatives focused on health, wellbeing, and strengthening community connections, with a strong emphasis on building resilience and helping families thrive. Guided by her faith and genuine love for people, Naomi leads with authenticity and care, inspiring others to step into leadership and make a meaningful impact. She is also part of Famili Failoa, a Pacific-led organisation dedicated to uplifting families through education, wellbeing, and holistic support.
Tusa Tavau Misikau
Tusa is a dedicated member of Lower Hutt Church with a strong passion for serving his community. He leads the church’s Lawn Care Ministry and regularly organises volunteer teams to clean and restore homes and gardens for vulnerable individuals and struggling families. He actively supports various church ministries and encourages those around him to get involved to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Through his compassion, enthusiasm, and servant leadership, Tusa inspires others to serve in practical ways to make a real difference in the community. "
Tungane Purea
Tu is a faithful and dedicated member of Calvary Community Church. Alongside his brother Tighe and a committed team of volunteers, they launched 'Street Ministry' at the beginning of last year. Since then, they have been providing a fortnightly breakfast for the community especially supporting those who are unhoused in Manurewa—while building genuine relationships and taking the time to truly get to know the people they serve. Through an understanding of the Father’s heart, Tu and the team have been transformed and are deeply passionate about loving others with the same compassion and care. The ministry is also beautifully intergenerational, uniting volunteers of all ages to serve side by side, fostering meaningful connection and community across generations.
Hui 7:
Community Service that Transforms Lives
Promoting wellbeing and resilience within diverse communities. Learn how to create inclusive spaces where individuals and families feel seen, heard, and empowered to reach their full potential.
Vaniva Lewis
Vaniva is a dedicated community leader and valued member of Kaitaia Church, with a deep heart for God and people. She is especially passionate about uplifting Indigenous cultures and strengthening connections and families across diverse communities. With years of experience serving others, Vaniva has led and contributed to a range of initiatives, most recently focusing on raising domestic violence awareness within the Cook Islands community. Her work centres on promoting wellbeing, building resilience, and creating inclusive spaces where individuals and families feel seen, heard, empowered. Known for her approachable and authentic leadership style, Vaniva is committed to inspiring others to step into their potential and contribute positively to their communities and beyond.
Grant Ingersoll
Grant has been a faithful and compassionate presence in the community through the Blenheim Soup Caravan for many years, serving with genuine love and care. He carries a remarkable ability to meet people where they are, offering not only practical support but also prayer, hope, and encouragement to those he encounters. Marked by humility and a quiet servant heart, Grant gives of himself freely, always seeking to reflect God’s love and gently point others toward Him. Together with his wife Chrissy, Grant is a devoted member of the Blenheim Seventh-day Adventist Church, where they have faithfully poured into both their church family and the wider community for many years. As a former Māori All Black, Grant brings a unique depth of experience to his journey—one that now finds its greatest expression in a life of service, connection, and faith.
100% Free Event
COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS
NETWORK MONTHLY ZOOM
You don’t have to see yourself as a “champion” to be part of this—if you have a heart to serve your community, you already are one.
Like the Community Champions Conference, this monthly zoom was born out of the Love Thy Neighbour COVID-19 Response—an initiative that brought people together across Aotearoa to care for their communities in a time of great need. What began in crisis has grown into an ongoing movement of connection, encouragement, and action.
Now, this monthly gathering continues that legacy by creating a space where everyday people can come together to share, learn, and support one another in making a difference. Held for just one hour on the last Sunday of each month, it’s designed to fit easily into your schedule while still adding real value.
So whether you’re just starting out or already serving in your community, you’ll gain practical insights, hear real stories, and be inspired and equipped to serve with greater confidence and impact. Together, we are building stronger, more connected communities—one step at a time. Register today and be part of the movement.
Event Sponsors
and Partners
100% Free Event
Community Champions
Network (CCN) Wellness Hubs
You’re invited to the Community Champions Network (CCN) Wellness Hubs — a 100% free event happening online via Zoom on June 5th, from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM.
After registering, you’ll receive an email with the access link and all the details you need to join.
Don’t miss this chance to connect and grow with our community — we look forward to seeing you there!
Community Champions
Conference Team
Adrielle
Health Ministries
Vic Kulakov
discipleship
Ole Pedersen
Hope Channel
Tony Fautua
ADRA
Luana Tupou
ADRA
Sally Lavea
ADRA
Event Prices
Attend Only
- Welcome Pack
- Day Sessions
- Food and Refreshments
- Access to available resources
Event Day Visitor
Access to all day Community Champions Conference sessions and activities 2026.
Earlybird
$80.00
Standard
$90.00
Late
$120.00
Dorm
- Welcome Pack
- 7 x Sessions
- Food and Refreshments
- Access to available resources
Event Access
Access to all Community Champions Conference sessions and activities 2026.
Earlybird
$90.00
Standard
$100.00
Late
$140.00
Cabin
- Welcome Pack
- 7 x Sessions
- Food and Refreshments
- Access to available resources
- Accomodation (Saturday evening)
Event Hosting
One nights accommodation and access to all Community Champions Conference sessions and activities 2026.
Earlybird
$120.00
Standard
$140.00
Late
$160.00
Event Prices
Early Bird
Until 15 April 2026
Register before 15 April and secure our lowest rates. Don't wait - Early Bird spots are limited.
What's Included
- Welcome Pack
- All conference sessions
- Food and refreshments
- Access to all resources
Price Per Person
Up to 4 guests per cabin. We will do our best to group people who know each other.
Standard
16 April to 1 May 2026
Standard registration is open from 16 April. All sessions and activities are included across the three days.
What's Included
- Welcome Pack
- All conference sessions
- Food and refreshments
- Access to all resources
Price Per Person
Up to 4 guests per cabin. We will do our best to group people who know each other.
Final Registration
From 2 May 2026
Last chance to join us. Final registration opens 2 May - three powerful days of learning and alignment.
What's Included
- Welcome Pack
- All conference sessions
- Food and refreshments
- Access to all resources
Price Per Person
Up to 4 guests per cabin. We will do our best to group people who know each other.
The Community Champions Conference is where you can be equipped, network and share learning and experiences with others to be better prepared to connect with your community and make a real difference by meeting some of their needs. Whether you have been connecting with your community for years, or want to connect but don’t know where to start. Come along to be EQUIPPED TO SERVE!
Address:
260 Anderson Road, RD 2, Hamurana, 3072, Rotorua, NZ
Phone: 07-332 3510
- New Zealand Pacific Union Conference