Katie Perkins

Is a local police officer and international sports star but that's only a tiny part of why we thoroughly value her presence on the team.

From her first introduction to the community we just knew we had to work with her further. Every community project we asked for police support on Katies' hand was raised willing to go the extra mile outside of her duties.

A holder of a Pātaka Kai; the local born charity supporting redistribution of food for our vulnerable families, a taxi driver and friendly ear to some of our most wayward rangatahi in Māngere, starting initiatives for access to cellphones during the 2020 lockdowns #CommunicatIsKey  and so much more.

Nowadays you will find Katie working round the clock in her chosen field and we hear she's giving waka ama a go now too.

Here’s what Katie had to say about joining the I Am Māngere team:

Who are you and what drives you?
I’m Katie. I hope to inspire and tautoko people to believe that they are capable of pursuing the goals and dreams they have for themselves and their whanau. My heart is for the people of South Auckland.

Why did you join I AM Māngere?
There are so many incredible people within Māngere who have a desire to serve their community. I love that I AM Māngere is an additional layer of support and guidance for those who know what they want to do but just might not know how to begin! By being part of I AM Māngere I get to support this amazing community in a whole other way.

What is missing from our community that you would like to see?
A youth focused space in the epicenter of Māngere that has youth workers/mentors available from day until night.

email: connect@iamhapori.co.nz