We create projects & programs
to support migrants,
connect the community, celebrate diversity,
and give back as one.
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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
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.
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!
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.
"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.
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."
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.
Upcoming Events
Past Events
Wed, 18 DecLake Hayes Pavilion- Wed, 11 DecQueenstown Community Harvest Gardens
Thu, 21 NovFrankton Library
Tue, 19 NovHappiness House, Queenstown
Fri, 01 NovTacos Jaguar / Searchlight Brewery
Tue, 29 OctHappiness House, Queenstown
Sun, 20 OctTe Atamira
Thu, 17 OctQueenstown Council Chambers
Tue, 15 OctHappiness House, Queenstown
Tue, 01 OctHappiness House, Queenstown
A Multitude Of Thanks To Our
Funding Partners, Past & Present:
JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST
FOR UPDATES ON WHAT WE'RE UP TO AND
TO KEEP A PULSE ON THE MIGRANT COMMUNITY
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
The Kiwi Kit Community Trust is a registered charity in New Zealand
CC58496
