Welcome to the most rewarding mahi (work) you'll ever do! As a project coordinator, you're about to bring your community together in the most beautiful way - through koha and collective care. Whether this is your first project or you're expanding into new areas, we're here to support you every step of the way.
As a kaiwhakahaere kaupapa, you're the heart of community connection. Your role includes:
Community Leadership
Identifying a project that will serve your community
Building relationships with schools, organisations, and community groups
Inspiring others to get involved as kaituku (donors) and tūao (volunteers)
Being the friendly face that people connect with
Project Management
Setting up projects on the Koha Tree platform
Coordinating timelines and logistics
Managing communication with all participants
Ensuring smooth collection and distribution processes
Project Setup Phase (2-3 weeks)
1-2 hours per week setting up projects and initial promotion
More intensive work getting everything organised initially
Front-loading effort pays off during busier phases
Active Registration Phase (4-6 weeks)
2-3 hours per week during peak sign-up periods
Daily monitoring of project progress and participant questions
Regular promotion and community engagement
Collection and Distribution Phase (1-2 weeks)
2-3 hours per week during intensive logistics periods
Coordinating drop-offs, managing collection points (if needed)
Problem-solving and ensuring no one misses out
Follow-up and Celebration (1-2 weeks)
2-3 hours per week wrapping up and thanking participants
Gathering feedback and sharing success stories
Planning for future projects
Essential Skills You'll Develop
Project planning and timeline management
Effective communication
Community engagement and relationship building
Digital platform proficiency
Crisis management and problem-solving
Resources We Provide
Platform training videos and written guides
If you’re a rangatahi taking part in the leadership programme, fortnightly training and mentoring sessions
Template emails and social media posts
Contact lists and coordinator networks
Emergency support protocols
Personal Qualities to Cultivate
Patience with questions and changing circumstances
Flexibility when original plans need adjustment
Enthusiasm that motivates others to participate
Cultural sensitivity in all interactions
Celebration mindset that recognises all contributions
Individual Community Champions You might be someone who saw a need and decided to act. Perhaps you noticed children at your local school who could use extra support, or families affected by recent challenges. Your passion and local knowledge make you perfectly placed to coordinate meaningful projects.
Rangatahi Leaders (Ages 17-23) Our youth coordinators bring fresh energy and authentic community connections. As a rangatahi coordinator, you'll receive extra support including mentoring, NZQA credit opportunities, and skill development resources.
School and Organisation Representatives Teachers, principals, social workers, and community organisation staff often coordinate projects for the communities they serve directly. Your existing relationships and understanding of needs make you natural project leaders.
Experienced Coordinators If you've successfully run projects before, you might mentor newer coordinators or take on larger, multi-organisation initiatives. Your experience helps strengthen our entire network.
Platform and Technical Support
Comprehensive training on using Koha Tree effectively
Step-by-step guides for every aspect of project management
Responsive technical support when you need help
Regular platform updates based on coordinator feedback
Mentoring and Peer Networks
Pairing with experienced coordinators in similar situations
Regional coordinator networks for sharing ideas and resources
Regular check-ins and support calls
Crisis support when unexpected challenges arise
Resource and Backup Support
Template communications and promotional materials
Best practice guides from successful projects
Emergency coordination support if you're overwhelmed
Community networks that can step in when needed
