Mission Statement:

Kumete Kai – The food Bowl exists to nourish body and spirit by making good food accessible to all. Rooted in the values of manaakitanga and whanaungatanga, we offer a shared table where dignity, community, and care are served daily. Like the traditional kumete bowl, we are a vessel of generosity—filling hearts as we fill plates.  

Unity and generosity:

"Ko te kumete kai, ko te kumete aroha."

"The food bowl of sustenance, the food bowl of love."

The kumete not only provides physical nourishment but also represents the love and care shared among people when they come together.

Five Core Principles of Kumete Kai Trust

1. Manaakitanga – Serving with Dignity and Care

We honour every person by ensuring that hospitality and generosity are at the core of everything we do. No one is turned away, and every interaction is rooted in compassion and respect.

2. Whanaungatanga – Building Strong Relationships

We foster a sense of belonging and unity, strengthening bonds within the community through shared meals, mutual support, and collaboration.

3. Kaitiakitanga – Stewardship of Resources

We are committed to wise, ethical use of food and financial resources, minimising waste and acting with responsibility for the wellbeing of people and the land.

4. Tino Rangatiratanga – Empowerment and Self-Determination

We support individuals and families to make their own choices with dignity, providing affordable access to food without dependency or shame.

5. Kotahitanga – Unity in Diversity

We celebrate the diversity of our community and work together across cultures, backgrounds, and beliefs to create a shared table where all are welcome.

Five Key Purposes of Kumete Kai Trust

1. To provide affordable and nutritious food and meals to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity, through a low-cost food outlet and culturally inclusive distribution model.

2. To restore dignity and choice to those accessing food support, by offering a hybrid system where customers can contribute financially and still receive supplementary support.

3. To promote food literacy, nutrition education, and healthy living, through workshops, cooking classes, and community engagement initiatives.

4. To reduce food waste and promote sustainability, by partnering with food rescue organisations, wholesalers, and growers to redirect surplus food to those in need.

5. To build resilient community networks, by creating a welcoming space that fosters connection, wellbeing, and a shared sense of belonging across all ages and backgrounds.