Aruga Āwhina was founded by two experienced support workers who believe people deserve better. With backgrounds in trauma-informed care, community development and lived experience of disability, we provide personalised, respectful and empowering support to people on the Gold Coast.
The Heart of Aruga Āwhina
The Meaning Behind Our Name
Aruga – A Filipino word meaning to nurture.
Āwhina – A Māori word meaning helper, support, assistance.
Together, Aruga Awhina means “Nurturing Support.”
A reflection of both Maria’s Filipino heritage and Amanda’s Māori roots — grounded in culture, care, and community.
After years of working in the disability sector, we saw too many people treated like numbers instead of individuals. We knew participants deserved more — more respect, more consistency, and more genuine care. So we created Aruga Āwhina.
Have Questions?
Tell us what you need, and we’ll figure it out together.