Hapori Community Connect

Hapori Community Connect was a digital inclusion programme delivered by Katoa Connect Trust in collaboration with Chorus New Zealand. Now concluded, the programme leaves behind a strong legacy of insight, impact, and meaningful outcomes for communities across Te Tai Tokerau (Northland).

Designed as an advanced foundational digital skills programme, Hapori Community Connect was developed to support individuals and whānau who were digitally disconnected or had limited access to reliable internet and devices. The programme aimed to bridge the digital divide by strengthening foundational skills and supporting long-term digital participation.

The final phase of the programme, delivered from mid-2024 through to June 2025, reinforced several critical learnings. It confirmed that lack of connectivity remains a significant barrier for many communities, access to reliable devices continues to be limited, and there is an ongoing and urgent need for foundational digital skills training to support sustained digital engagement.

With a strong focus on equity, the programme prioritised Māori and Pasifika learners while remaining inclusive of all ethnicities, particularly those experiencing digital marginalisation. Participation was based on demonstrated need for stable connectivity and foundational digital capability.

Building on earlier success, Hapori Community Connect supported and completed training with over 100 learners by December 2024. High participation and completion rates reflected both the relevance of the programme content and the strong commitment of learners, communities, and partner organisations involved.

Overall, the programme proved to be highly effective and well received, empowering individuals and families with the confidence, skills, and tools needed to engage more fully in an increasingly digital world.