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We create projects & programs
to support migrants,
connect the community, celebrate diversity,
and give back as one.
Home: Welcome
Home: Meet the Team

Our Team

Our small team is working hard to support the community through The Kiwi Kit Community Trust.
 

In order to have an inclusive, diverse, and safe community, we always aim to also include members of the community, local agencies, and other stakeholders to be part of our vision. Join us!

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Kelsey Powell

Jane of All Trades

"Captain of Compassion"

Kelsey is a registered mental health counsellor at The Therapy Project and a Licensed Immigration Adviser (provisional) at her Aotearoa-based company, The Kiwi Kit.

 

Both are endeavours that aim to make people's lives better and to equip people with the skills and tools they need to navigate their situation with confidence and support.

Kelsey helped to co-create The Kiwi Kit Community Trust to always give back to the local community as a migrant herself who has felt welcomed and accepted along the way in her journey.

Illizannate Kaloudau - The Kiwi Kit Comm

"Liz" Illizannate Kaloudau

Operations Manager

Hailing from the tropical paradise of Fiji, Liz brings with her a wealth of warmth, hospitality, and cultural richness to the Kiwi Kit Community Trust. With extensive experience in the tourism industry, Liz's journey to Queenstown was serendipitous, finding herself embraced by the community since her arrival in 2018. From managing prominent shops to engaging with people from all walks of life, Liz's passion for fostering connections and understanding different cultures shines through.

 

A true advocate for cultural awareness, Liz believes that embracing diversity leads to more meaningful interactions and a stronger sense of community. Fondly nicknamed 'Mother Theresa' by her family for her unwavering dedication to helping others, Liz's compassionate spirit fuels her commitment to giving back. She finds immense joy in making a positive impact in the lives of those around her, embodying the belief that collective efforts can create a more compassionate and supportive community.

 

In her role with the Kiwi Kit Community Trust, Liz aspires to foster a positive and supportive environment where migrants feel welcomed, valued, and connected. She envisions creating opportunities for cultural exchange, networking, and community building, ensuring that everyone feels a sense of belonging and safety. With Liz's dedication and warmth, the Trust is poised to create a more inclusive and connected Queenstown community for all.

Daniela Mercado - Kiwi Kit Community Tru

Dani Mercado

Migrant Support Manager
"Little Spark Activator"

Dani, originally from Mexico, has made New Zealand her home since 2018. With a Bachelor's in Laws obtained in Mexico, she delved into the private sector, specialising in Antitrust law. Her pursuit of knowledge led her to international studies in human rights at Ottawa University, a testament to her dedication to understanding global legal frameworks. 

Her passion for human rights and international law ignited during her social service in a legal clinic both in Mexico and Canada. Now a permanent resident of New Zealand, she serves as a Legal Assistant with aspirations to become a lawyer in this country.

 

In 2021, she received an invitation to join TKKCT alongside the founders, Kelsey & Franco. Her contributions to the team included the development of innovative programs, migrant support, translator and she has remained an active member within the community ever since.

Dani has also served as a part of the Welcoming Communities Advisory Group for Queenstown Lakes District. The advisory group offered leadership and advice for the implementation of the council's Welcoming Plan 2024-2027.

 

As our Migrant Support “Little Spark Activator,” Dani is part of The Kiwi Kit Community Trust to help build connectedness and resilience as well as to help communities feel more connected in order to find the spark in their lives. 


"Life Is Full Of Possibilities. You Just Need To Know Where To Look."

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Laura Palmieri

Marketing & Events Coordinator

Originally from North Carolina, USA, Laura began her life 'down under' doing a semester at Sydney University in 2009, and never looked back again. Eventually arriving in Queenstown in early 2011, Laura found herself captivated by life in the mountains and the warmth of the diverse multi-cultural community. Her journey to kiwi citizenship was not a linear one, but she is so proud to now call NZ her "forever home."

Laura's background in Marketing & Events is a tapestry of diverse experiences. Armed with a degree in Graphic Arts and Communications, she developed a strong background in Sales, Marketing, Events & Production roles over the last 13 years, by working in Queenstown's vibrant Tourism, Hospitality, Wedding & Film industries. Additionally, Laura ventured into entrepreneurship, founding her own local Photobooth business and a marketing & photography sole-tradership.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Laura's passions are grounded in connecting with others through adventure, creativity, and community. Her "happy places" are either deep in nature, or deep on a dance floor, and she finds joy in embracing new experiences while pursuing personal development & growth through pushing boundaries. 

In her role as the Marketing & Events Coordinator for the Kiwi Kit Community Trust, Laura is driven by a profound sense of purpose. She is committed to leveraging her skills and experiences to contribute to the development of a more inclusive and welcoming Queenstown community. Laura aspires to create meaningful connections, foster a sense of belonging, and extend her network to support those in need of community. 

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The Kiwi Kit Community Trust is a local charitable trust on a mission to support and empower migrants, unite the whole community, and celebrate diversity in the Queenstown Lakes District, through events and ongoing programs that fill the gaps identified across the community.

OUR CORE VALUES:

WHANAUNGATANGA  |  Sense of Belonging & Connection

TIAKI  |  Taking Care of People & Nature

MANA MANAAKI  Building the Mana of Others, Through Nurturing, Growing, and Challenging

Home: Mission & Values

What We Do

We will achieve our mission by creating and leading event projects and ongoing programs, while also taking practical actions that make a difference to people's lives in our community.


As a grass-roots movement, The Kiwi Kit Community Trust, aims to grow organically step-by-step, by starting small and following the breadcrumbs of what is needed.

 

By listening to our community and collaborating with agencies and stakeholders, we can co-create the biggest positive impact the Queenstown Lakes District has ever seen.

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Projects

Community Events

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Programs

Ongoing Community Services

Home: What We Do
Home: Events

Upcoming Events

  • The Language Lounge
    The Language Lounge
    Multiple Dates
    Tue, 08 Oct
    Beech Tree Craft Beer Queenstown
    08 Oct 2024, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
    Beech Tree Craft Beer Queenstown, 11/13 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300
    08 Oct 2024, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
    Beech Tree Craft Beer Queenstown, 11/13 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300
    Join us every month for an interactive language exchange event! Meet new people, practice languages, and enjoy cultural exchange.
  • The Language Lounge
    The Language Lounge
    Multiple Dates
    Tue, 12 Nov
    Beech Tree Craft Beer Queenstown
    12 Nov 2024, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
    Beech Tree Craft Beer Queenstown, 11/13 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300
    12 Nov 2024, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
    Beech Tree Craft Beer Queenstown, 11/13 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300
    Join us every month for an interactive language exchange event! Meet new people, practice languages, and enjoy cultural exchange.
  • The Language Lounge
    The Language Lounge
    Multiple Dates
    Tue, 10 Dec
    Beech Tree Craft Beer Queenstown
    10 Dec 2024, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
    Beech Tree Craft Beer Queenstown, 11/13 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300
    10 Dec 2024, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
    Beech Tree Craft Beer Queenstown, 11/13 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300
    Join us every month for an interactive language exchange event! Meet new people, practice languages, and enjoy cultural exchange.
  • Community Garden Working Bee
    Community Garden Working Bee
    Date and time is TBD
    Queenstown Community Harvest Gardens
    Date and time is TBD
    Queenstown Community Harvest Gardens, 6866576, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    Date and time is TBD
    Queenstown Community Harvest Gardens, 6866576, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    Join the Kiwi Kit Community Trust in the Queenstown Harvest Community Gardens as we work together throughout the year to develop and nurture a fruitful garden. Learn new gardening skills or share your own, while connecting with nature and new friends from the multi-cultural community of Queenstown!

Past Events

  • Cook Around the World: USA
    Cook Around the World: USA
    Tue, 01 Oct
    Happiness House, Queenstown
    01 Oct 2024, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
    Happiness House, Queenstown, 4 Park Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    01 Oct 2024, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
    Happiness House, Queenstown, 4 Park Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    Join us for bi-weekly cooking sessions hosted in collaboration with the diverse ethnic communities of Tāhuna. Learn a new recipe whilst celebrating community togetherness. This week we're going to USA 🇺🇸 This event is brought to you by Happiness House and The Kiwi Kit Community Trust.
  • Cook Around the World: Nepal
    Cook Around the World: Nepal
    Tue, 17 Sept
    Happiness House, Queenstown
    17 Sept 2024, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
    Happiness House, Queenstown, 4 Park Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    17 Sept 2024, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
    Happiness House, Queenstown, 4 Park Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    Join us for bi-weekly cooking sessions hosted in collaboration with the diverse ethnic communities of Tāhuna. Learn a new recipe whilst celebrating community togetherness. This week we're going to Nepal 🇳🇵 This event is brought to you by Happiness House and The Kiwi Kit Community Trust.
  • Wellbeing Sessions: Stretching
    Wellbeing Sessions: Stretching
    Thu, 12 Sept
    The Hub @ Whakatipu Youth Trust
    12 Sept 2024, 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
    The Hub @ Whakatipu Youth Trust, 4a/15 Red Oaks Drive, Frankton, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    12 Sept 2024, 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
    The Hub @ Whakatipu Youth Trust, 4a/15 Red Oaks Drive, Frankton, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    Release tension and promote overall well-being in this relaxing stretching session. Emphasising breathwork and full-body relaxation, this workshop is perfect for all skill levels looking to find a renewed sense of balance and inner peace.
  • The International Storytellers Film Series presents: "Lucky Grandma"
    The International Storytellers Film Series presents: "Lucky Grandma"
    Wed, 11 Sept
    Queenstown Council Chambers
    11 Sept 2024, 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm
    Queenstown Council Chambers, 10 Gorge Road, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    11 Sept 2024, 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm
    Queenstown Council Chambers, 10 Gorge Road, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    This month, in honour of Welcoming Week, we are proud to present "Lucky Grandma," a dark comedy that explores immigrant life, the vulnerabilities of aging, and unexpected friendships.
  • The Language Lounge (WANAKA)
    The Language Lounge (WANAKA)
    Multiple Dates
    Tue, 10 Sept
    Rhyme X Reason, Wānaka
    10 Sept 2024, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
    Rhyme X Reason, Wānaka, 17 Gordon Road, Wānaka 9305, New Zealand
    10 Sept 2024, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
    Rhyme X Reason, Wānaka, 17 Gordon Road, Wānaka 9305, New Zealand
    Join us for an interactive language exchange event! This month we're travelling to Wanaka! Meet new people, practice languages, and enjoy cultural exchange with your community!
  • Cook Around the World: England
    Cook Around the World: England
    Tue, 03 Sept
    Happiness House, Queenstown
    03 Sept 2024, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
    Happiness House, Queenstown, 4 Park Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    03 Sept 2024, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
    Happiness House, Queenstown, 4 Park Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    Join us for bi-weekly cooking sessions hosted in collaboration with the diverse ethnic communities of Tāhuna. Learn a new recipe whilst celebrating community togetherness. This week we're going to England This event is brought to you by Happiness House and The Kiwi Kit Community Trust.
  • The Language Lounge
    The Language Lounge
    Tue, 20 Aug
    Beech Tree Craft Beer Queenstown
    20 Aug 2024, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
    Beech Tree Craft Beer Queenstown, 11/13 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300
    20 Aug 2024, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
    Beech Tree Craft Beer Queenstown, 11/13 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300
    Join us every month for an interactive language exchange event! Meet new people, practice languages, and enjoy cultural exchange.
  • Cook Around the World: Sri Lanka
    Cook Around the World: Sri Lanka
    Tue, 20 Aug
    Happiness House, Queenstown
    20 Aug 2024, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
    Happiness House, Queenstown, 4 Park Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    20 Aug 2024, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
    Happiness House, Queenstown, 4 Park Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    Join us for bi-weekly cooking sessions hosted in collaboration with the diverse ethnic communities of Tāhuna. Learn a new recipe whilst celebrating community togetherness. This week we're going to Sri Lanka 🇱🇰 This event is brought to you by Happiness House and The Kiwi Kit Community Trust.
  • Wellbeing Sessions: Meditative Art
    Wellbeing Sessions: Meditative Art
    Sun, 18 Aug
    Te Atamira
    18 Aug 2024, 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
    Te Atamira, Building 11, Dart House, Remarkables Park Town Centre 12 Hawthorne Drive, Frankton, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    18 Aug 2024, 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
    Te Atamira, Building 11, Dart House, Remarkables Park Town Centre 12 Hawthorne Drive, Frankton, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    Embark on a journey of self-discovery and inner peace while creating art. Guided by instructor Melina Shabel, you will engage in a series of meditative practices and intentional breathing exercises that calm the mind and open the door to creativity.
  • The Language Lounge
    The Language Lounge
    Multiple Dates
    Tue, 13 Aug
    Beech Tree Craft Beer Queenstown
    13 Aug 2024, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
    Beech Tree Craft Beer Queenstown, 11/13 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300
    13 Aug 2024, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
    Beech Tree Craft Beer Queenstown, 11/13 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300
    Join us every month for an interactive language exchange event! Meet new people, practice languages, and enjoy cultural exchange.
  • The International Storytellers Film Series presents: "To Us The Ashes: Indigenous Shorts"
    The International Storytellers Film Series presents: "To Us The Ashes: Indigenous Shorts"
    Thu, 08 Aug
    Queenstown Council Chambers
    08 Aug 2024, 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
    Queenstown Council Chambers, 10 Gorge Road, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    08 Aug 2024, 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
    Queenstown Council Chambers, 10 Gorge Road, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    Join us for the third edition of the International Storytellers Film Series as we screen "To Us the Ashes: Indigenous Shorts." This powerful collection of documentary shorts highlights the stories and resilience of Indigenous Peoples worldwide.
  • Cook Around the World: Chile
    Cook Around the World: Chile
    Tue, 06 Aug
    Happiness House, Queenstown
    06 Aug 2024, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
    Happiness House, Queenstown, 4 Park Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    06 Aug 2024, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
    Happiness House, Queenstown, 4 Park Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    Join us for bi-weekly cooking sessions hosted in collaboration with the diverse ethnic communities of Tāhuna. Learn a new recipe whilst celebrating community togetherness. This week we're going to Chile! 🇨🇱 This event is brought to you by Happiness House and The Kiwi Kit Community Trust.
  • Wellbeing Sessions: Movement
    Wellbeing Sessions: Movement
    Sun, 21 Jul
    Queenstown
    21 Jul 2024, 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm
    Queenstown, Building 11, Dart House, Remarkables Park Town Centre 12 Hawthorne Drive, Frankton, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    21 Jul 2024, 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm
    Queenstown, Building 11, Dart House, Remarkables Park Town Centre 12 Hawthorne Drive, Frankton, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    Get ready to dance your heart out with Melina Shabel! This community dance class focuses on Afro Dance, promoting joy, physical activity, and warmth during the winter months. No prior dance experience is necessary—just bring your enthusiasm and a willingness to move!
  • The International Storytellers Film Series presents: "Living the Change"
    The International Storytellers Film Series presents: "Living the Change"
    Wed, 17 Jul
    Queenstown Council Chambers
    17 Jul 2024, 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
    Queenstown Council Chambers, 10 Gorge Road, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    17 Jul 2024, 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
    Queenstown Council Chambers, 10 Gorge Road, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    Celebrate Nelson Mandela International Day for July's edition of the International Storytellers Film Series. We'll be screening "Living the Change" a documentary that showcases inspiring stories of individuals and communities pioneering sustainable solutions.
  • Cook Around the World: India
    Cook Around the World: India
    Tue, 16 Jul
    Happiness House, Queenstown
    16 Jul 2024, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
    Happiness House, Queenstown, 4 Park Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    16 Jul 2024, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
    Happiness House, Queenstown, 4 Park Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    Join us for bi-weekly cooking sessions hosted in collaboration with the diverse ethnic communities of Tāhuna. Learn a new recipe whilst celebrating community togetherness. This week we're going to Taiwan! 🇹🇼 This event is brought to you by Happiness House and The Kiwi Kit Community Trust.
  • The Language Lounge
    The Language Lounge
    Thu, 11 Jul
    Beech Tree Craft Beer Queenstown
    11 Jul 2024, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
    Beech Tree Craft Beer Queenstown, 11/13 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300
    11 Jul 2024, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
    Beech Tree Craft Beer Queenstown, 11/13 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300
    This dynamic language exchange event is designed to bring people together through the love of languages. Whether you're new to Queenstown or a long-time resident, The Language Lounge offers a unique opportunity to practice languages, meet new people, and enjoy a culturally enriching evening.
  • The Community Garden Movie Night
    The Community Garden Movie Night
    Wed, 10 Jul
    The Rees Hotel
    10 Jul 2024, 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
    The Rees Hotel, 377 Frankton Road, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    10 Jul 2024, 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
    The Rees Hotel, 377 Frankton Road, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    Let’s plant some seeds of motivation with three inspirational permaculture documentary films: "The City Food Commons," "Together We Grow," and "Growing Wild Together."
  • Cook Around the World: Taiwan
    Cook Around the World: Taiwan
    Tue, 02 Jul
    Happiness House, Queenstown
    02 Jul 2024, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
    Happiness House, Queenstown, 4 Park Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    02 Jul 2024, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
    Happiness House, Queenstown, 4 Park Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
    Join us for bi-weekly cooking sessions hosted in collaboration with the diverse ethnic communities of Tāhuna. Learn a new recipe whilst celebrating community togetherness. This week we're going to Taiwan! 🇹🇼 This event is brought to you by Happiness House and The Kiwi Kit Community Trust.
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Migrant Survey

Help us better serve the migrant and multicultural community in Queenstown. By taking a few moments to complete our survey you will help us to understand the ways in which we can better support the needs of this community.

JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST
FOR UPDATES ON WHAT WE'RE UP TO AND
TO KEEP A PULSE ON THE MIGRANT COMMUNITY

Thanks for joining our list!

Would you like to make a donation to support our trust?

We are all currently volunteers, so any contribution is greatly appreciated.  If you would like to donate, please use the Paypal button or you can utilise direct transfer to our trust account.  Thank you for your support!

ASB Bank | The Kiwi Kit Community Trust | 12-3405-0053091-00

Contact Us

LOCATION: Queenstown, New Zealand

PHONE: 021 082 52279

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The Kiwi Kit Community Trust is a registered charity in New Zealand

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