“Fuelling futures, one bite at a time.”
The tagline being used to promote a new Social Eatery initiative captures the purpose of this kaupapa led by ākonga from the Whaikaha/Supported Learning programme.
The initiative is both a fundraiser to provide learners with diverse needs greater access to resources, and designed to empower them through real-world, practical work experience that blends with classroom learning.
The eatery will see Supported Learning ākonga cook, prepare and sell lunch meals at the Events Kitchen in Te Puna every Friday from 10am-2pm during Semester Two.
“The Social Eatery isn’t just about serving food—it’s about serving futures. What truly sets it apart is how seamlessly it blends purpose with Practice. This project aligns with educational and institutional objectives,” says Lecturer, Supported Learning, Lynette Solomon.
“It is a real-world learning opportunity for Disabled Learners to recognise how they can impact society by planning, following through and implementing steps towards a goal,” says Academic Programme Manager, Dave Hicks.
“It helps to develop positive attributes that have been disabled by the common narrative in society that if you are different, you cannot participate in the system.
“Whaikaha students learn to develop functional skills linked to hospitality, but more importantly, discover that they can build attributes around teamwork, task initiation, self-regulation, and context awareness with support. Having the opportunity in the public eye to develop these skills and attributes is invaluable.”
The Social Eatery kicked off on Friday, 31 July 2025 with a number of kaimahi and ākonga flocking to the Events Kitchen to try the new meals with hot dogs, sausage and bread and hot chips on the menu.
The menu is affordable with items ranging in price from $2 to $6 per item with cash and eftpos payment options available. The menu will change every Friday to provide variety and cater to diverse tastes.
“The day was a great success. It was great to see our students smiling and having a fantastic first day. They felt proud, excited, and ready to return next Friday with even more energy,” says Lynette, reflecting on the opening day.
“It was a truly historic moment – one that uplifted and empowered our students in ways that were mana enhancing.”
According to Lynette, the Social Eatery will spark community engagement and enable real-world learning in action.
“ Students don’t just read about entrepreneurship or hospitality—they live it. Whether managing operations, handling customer service, or preparing meals, they gain hands-on vocational experience that builds confidence and competence,” she explains.
“It cultivates employability, giving students the confidence and hands-on know-how to take on future paid job opportunities.”
“The initiative gives our ākonga independence, celebrates teamwork, and promotes inclusivity—values that shape not only future careers but character.”
“The success of this launch reflects the dedication and teamwork of all involved, and we are very grateful. Our learners also want to say a special thank you to the patrons who came along and showed their support.”
This Friday, 8 August 2025 will see hot dogs, burgers and BBQ sausages on the menu (see full menu and prices below).
Kaimahi and ākonga are encouraged to come along and support our ākonga by purchasing a meal at the Events Kitchen from 10am.
The Whaikaha programme is also holding a Hollywood Quiz Night fundraiser at the Mt Albert Rugby League Club on Friday, 8 August from 7:00pm-9:00pm. $10 cash entry only. RSVP to Angelina Wright awright@unitec.ac.nz
Menu for Friday, 8 August 2025
| Hot Dogs with Chow Chow relish | $6 |
| Burgers | $6 |
| BBQ sausages with onion | $3 |
| All sauces are included in price. |
Awesome mahi creating this Social Eatery Lynn! 🙂
Thank you Maree and a huge thank you for your support with this kaupapa from the get go!
Kia ora everyone, my work based learning students, myself and support tutors would like to say a huge thank you to each and everyone who so far has supported our Social Eatery Fundraiser contributing to it’s success. We are participating in another event this Friday, but will be back up and running on 22nd August 2025 with new additions to the menu! We look forward to seeing you all!