What We Do
Kōtare began life as a community project in the mid-1990s. A group of adult educators, union and community organisers, Catholic social justice advocates and Pākehā treaty activists were inspired by the vision of creating a ‘school for social change’ to form ‘Kōtare Research and Education for Social Change in Aotearoa’ as a charitable trust. A residential educational centre was established on one hectare of land at Hōteo North in the late 1990s and we have been offering regular programmes and activities since that time.
For a fuller history, see Our History.
Our name
Kōtare takes its name from the indigenous kingfisher of Aotearoa, with its raucous cry and brilliant feathers. When diving underwater the kōtare is able to see clearly with the help of its extraordinary transparent third eyelid.
The kōtare challenges and inspires us to regard the world with a clear vision, speak with a strong voice and act with a bold heart. We strive to get to the roots of injustice and to encourage those working for positive change.
Kōtare centre
Kōtare’s residential educational centre is located approximately one hour’s drive north of Auckland, in the rural setting of Hōteo North near Wellsford, within the rohe of Ngāti Whātua o Kaipara and under the maunga Kikitangeo.
The centre is a place to network and share learning, and to challenge and debate with each other in a safe atmosphere; it’s also a place to relax and reflect, and to share great food. The reflective and stimulating environment at Kōtare welcomes, encourages and inspires those working for positive social change.
Learn more