Chelita Kahutianui-o-te-Rangi Zainey
(Waitaha; Ngāpuhi; Ngāti Kahu; Ngāti Haua; Lebanese; Scottish; Irish)
Rooted in the rich traditions of her Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Kahu, Waitaha, and Ngāti Haua heritage, Chelita Kahutianui o Te Rangi Zainey is a dedicated Māori healer and mentor, deeply committed to the wellbeing and empowerment of her community. With a deep connection to the ancient healing arts, Chelita has honed her craft as a Kai Mirimiri and Kai Rongoā practitioner, alongside her Kai Pūoro bringing holistic care to those in need.
Her journey in Māori healing began with a profound respect for Te Reo me ona Tikanga (the language and culture), which she integrates into her practice. As a certified Trauma-Informed Breathwork Facilitator, Chelita blends traditional knowledge with modern techniques to create a safe and nurturing space for healing. Her approach is not just about physical health, but about restoring balance and harmony to the mind, body, and spirit.
Chelita’s work is more than a profession; it is a calling to uplift and strengthen the mana (spiritual power) of her people. Whether teaching, mentoring, or healing, she embodies the values of manaakitanga (hospitality and care), ensuring that every interaction is infused with respect and compassion. Through her practice, Chelita continues to pass on the wisdom of her ancestors, guiding others on their path to healing and wholeness.Chelita has built a career that transcends conventional methods, weaving the threads of Indigenous wisdom and trauma-informed care into every endeavour.
Chelita Kahutianui o Te Rangi Zainey is also a seasoned Project and Event Manager, celebrated for her innovative approach that harmonises indigenous values with contemporary practices. With roots deeply embedded in her Māori heritage, Chelita is dedicated to creating spaces where the manaakitanga (care and hospitality) of all participants is paramount. Her work is characterised by a profound respect for tikanga (cultural practices) and a holistic approach that ensures the wellbeing of both people and projects.
Education & Certifications
Chelita’s educational journey is a testament to her commitment to lifelong learning and cultural preservation:
Owaken Breathwork
Trauma Informed Breathwork Facilitator (9 Months) 2022Te Wānanga o Aotearoa
Te Pūtaketanga o te Reo (2014 - 2015)New Zealand Broadcasting School, Ara Institute
Diploma in Broadcasting Journalism (1993)
Expertise
Chelita’s professional expertise spans across multiple facets, where her indigenous and trauma-informed approach has set new benchmarks. Her skills include:
Kai Mirimiri
Kai Rongoā
Kai Pūoro - Poutokumanawa with Kiki Pounamu
Indigenous Healer
Breathwork Facilitator
Project Planning and Management
Public Speaking & Presentations
Budget Management
Stakeholder Management
Health and Safety Development
Project Reporting
Content Creation and Marketing for Social Media
Proficiency in Te Reo Māori me ona Tikanga
At the heart of Chelita’s work is a belief that integrating indigenous approaches into her healing workshops and 1:1 work, project and event management not only honours cultural heritage but also elevates the experience for everyone involved. Her projects are grounded in manaakitanga, ensuring that every event is a celebration of life, culture, and community.
Chelita Kahutianui o Te Rangi Zainey invites you to join her on this journey of cultural enrichment, where every project is a step towards a more inclusive and respectful world.
Expertise
Chelita’s professional expertise spans across multiple facets, where her indigenous and trauma-informed approach has set new benchmarks. Her skills include:
Kai Mirimiri
Kai Rongoā
Kai Pūoro - Poutokumanawa with Kiki Pounamu
Indigenous Healer
Breathwork Facilitator
Project Planning and Management
Public Speaking & Presentations
Budget Management
Stakeholder Management
Health and Safety Development
Project Reporting
Content Creation and Marketing for Social Media
Proficiency in Te Reo Māori me ona Tikanga
Key Projects
Chelita has been at the helm of numerous significant projects that have left an indelible mark on the community:
Ngāi Tahu Hui ā Iwi Project Manager:
Successfully managed a multi-day, multi-venue event with over 3,000 attendees, collaborating closely with Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu and overseeing high-level budget management.Te Rūnanga o Koukourārata Project Manager:
Led the co-ordination of a multi-day event with comprehensive budget oversight, ensuring a seamless experience for all stakeholders.Tuia 250 - Whakaraupō | Rāpaki Event Manager:
Orchestrated the Tuia 250 event in partnership with Te Hapū o Ngāti Wheke, managing key stakeholders including the Ministry of Culture and Heritage, and executing a successful multi-day, multi-venue event.Nā te Kore - 2nd International Indigenous Design Conference Event Manager:
Coordinated an international multi-day, multi-venue event that highlighted Indigenous design and innovation on a global stage.
Media Links
Explore the Media Links section to delve into the impactful journey of Chelita Kahutianui o Te Rangi Zainey. Here, you’ll find interviews, articles, and features that showcase her work in indigenous project management, cultural preservation, and trauma-informed practices. Each link offers a glimpse into how Chelita's unique approach is making waves in communities and industries alike, providing inspiration and insight into her mission of uplifting and honoring indigenous knowledge and values.