StandingTallNZ.org
2 min read
OUR STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS
3 min read
Our team brings both professional skills and lived experience. Together, we create a safe, supportive, and culturally grounded space for tāne on their healing and rehabilitation journeys.
We provide workshops and specialised training that build practical skills, confidence, and cultural understanding. This supports tāne, their whānau, and communities to move forward in positive and lasting ways.
Dr. Alexander Stevens II
Ngāti Kahu ki Whaingaroa / Ngāpuhi
Chief Executive Officer /
Reg Practitioner and Clinical Supervisor
Vocational trainer
Nigel Petersen
Matautu Utu-Uta, Apia & Sapo’e Falealili
Pacific Liason Officer / Facilitator
(Registered SWRB)
Irie Thomas
Muriwhenua / Ngāpuhi
Mental Health & Addictions Support Worker / Tikanga Advisor / Facilitator (Registered DAPAANZ)
Sione Finau
Ma'ufanga & Pea / Tonga
Registered Drug & Alcohol Practitioner / Facilitator
Vocational Trainer
(Registered DAPAANZ)
Kia ora and welcome. My name is Dr Alexander Stevens II (PhD). I am a qualified health professional with over 20 years of clinical experience in sexual and physical violence recovery, addictions, mental health, trauma, and suicide prevention.
I am also a practitioner of Rongoā Māori, using traditional healing methods. Alongside this, I work as a Senior Māori Lecturer at Auckland University of Technology, a kaupapa Māori researcher, and a digital content and web designer. I am a registered clinical practitioner and cultural supervisor with DAPAANZ.
As a registered ACC clinician, I have spent over 20 years working across the health and social service sectors. My work focuses on supporting individuals and training whānau, support people, and communities across Aotearoa to better support those affected by sexual violence. I am also a qualified vocational trainer in adult education.
Here are radio interviews about my work across Aotearoa/New Zealand.
Mālō le soifua. I'm Nigel. I am a Social Worker (SWRB) with a background in working with young people, abuse and trauma. I am studying for a Master's in Violence and Trauma Studies from AUT.
Working to support people to get ahead and empower people is what I love to do. My role at StandingTallNZ is to work across Pacific communities and build relationships that enable Pacific men to get support from historical sexual abuse. I also work with clients living with trauma, addictions and mental health and manage Sione and Irie.
Fa'afetai tele lava
Kia ora,
Ko Irie tōku ingoa, I descend from the six tribes of Muriwhenua, in the far north of Aotearoa, extending from the Maungataniwha Range up to Cape Rēinga.
At StandingTallNZ I manaaki the tikanga, kaupapa, tinana and wairua to ensure our team and people who access our services are supported and feel safe.
Here is a radio interview about me and what I am passionate about decreasing anxiety and increasing wellness.
Mauri Ora!!!
Kia ora, Malo e lelei, Malo tau lava & warm Pasefika greetings!
My name is Sione, and I am a Mental Health and Addictions Practitioner pursuing a PhD in 2026.
I focus on developing online opportunities for Pacific communities to engage in meaningful conversations about mental health, addiction recovery, and the prevention of family harm and other forms of violence. Alongside this, I provide vocational training that supports personal growth, employment pathways, and long-term wellbeing. In this capacity, I work collaboratively with stakeholders to enhance awareness and understanding of mental health and addiction issues, ensuring that interventions are both culturally responsive and grounded in Pacific values. Through this integrated approach, I aim to create safe and supportive environments for dialogue and healing, empowering individuals, families, and communities to thrive.
Here is a podcast interview I did on education and goal setting.
Koia pe Malo!!