Our Legacy & Evolution
Established on 18 July 2022, Aotearoa Animal Refuge was founded with a clear focus on companion animal welfare. In 2025, our Trust Deed was restated to reflect our growth and deepened commitment as a Māori-led and Māori-owned organisation, guided by the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
This evolution from our roots to our current mission ensures that Kaitiakitanga remains at the heart of everything we do. We have expanded our reach to advocate for both the wellbeing of domestic animals and the restoration of Aotearoa’s native biodiversity, creating a harmonious future for animals, people, and the natural world.
A Professional Legacy
Aotearoa Animal Refuge continues the dedicated work formerly known as Kasie Kat Rescue Trust and Pawsitive Rescue. We honour our history while looking forward to a future led by indigenous wisdom and charitable excellence.
Guided by Te Tiriti o Waitangi
Aotearoa Animal Refuge (Te Tūāhoi Atawhai Kararehe o Aotearoa) is founded upon the core principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Our commitment to partnership, participation, and equity ensures that animal welfare and biodiversity outcomes are achieved through meaningful relationships with tangata whenua, hapū, and iwi.
Māori Leadership & Governance
We prioritised and protect Māori representation within our governance to uphold tino rangatiratanga. By integrating tikanga Māori and te reo Māori into our leadership practices, we ensure our work in pet rescue and ecosystem restoration remains culturally grounded and community-focused.
Governance & Accountability
Te Kāwanatanga me te Haepapa
Aotearoa Animal Refuge operates as a registered charitable trust (CC60429), maintaining the highest standards of transparency and ethical leadership in animal welfare.
Board of Trustees
The Trust is governed by a dedicated Board of Trustees (3 members). Guided by Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Māori representation is prioritised and protected in our governance structure to ensure authentic leadership.
Commitment & Reporting
- Trustees meet at four times per year to review strategic outcomes and financial health.
- Annual returns are filed with Charities Services (NZBN 9429050712700).
- All funds are applied exclusively to charitable purposes within Aotearoa New Zealand.
- Accountability is provided through regular financial reporting to the Board.
Incorporated under the Charitable Trusts Act 1957. CC60429. All operations comply with the Restated Trust Deed 2025.