Kaimahi Kōrero: Aimie Dwyer - Residential Property Administrator

Meet Aimie Dwyer, Residential Property Administrator at Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Rawa.

Originally from Ireland, Aimie moved to Aotearoa with her whānau two years ago, bringing with her a diverse background in aviation, hospitality, customer service and operations.

For Aimie, joining Whai Rawa holds a particularly special meaning. Her husband and tamariki are uri o Tuperiri, and the decision to move from Ireland to Ōrākei was driven by a desire for her children to grow up connected to their whakapapa, tikanga and whānau.

“We made the decision to move from Ireland to Ōrākei because we wanted our tamariki to grow up in the heart of the iwi, surrounded by their tikanga, language and whānau.”

Having seen first-hand the opportunities and support the iwi provides, Aimie says being able to give back through her own mahi is something she is incredibly proud of.

In her role, Aimie supports the day-to-day management of Whai Rawa’s residential properties, coordinating maintenance, inspections and contractors to help ensure whare are safe, comfortable and well-maintained for whānau.

Her personal connection to the iwi gives this mahi an added sense of purpose, knowing that the work being done today is helping create opportunities for her own tamariki and future generations.

“When I see the work Whai Rawa is undertaking, I don't just see properties or developments. I see opportunities for my tamariki, their cousins, and future generations of uri to thrive.”

Since joining Whai Rawa, Aimie has particularly valued the sense of whanaungatanga across the organisation and the opportunity to continue learning about the iwi's history, culture and aspirations.

Outside of mahi, Aimie enjoys spending time with her whānau, reading, sewing and walking along Tāmaki Drive. She's also learning te reo Māori and exploring the similarities between Māori and Irish culture.

Interesting fact: Aimie represented Munster in rugby union at school level in Ireland, and rugby is how she met her husband! Being Irish in a household of proud New Zealanders also means some friendly rivalry whenever Ireland takes on the All Blacks.