Honoring our Pou Tū in Otautahi, Christchurch
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF SERVICE. Pou Pasifika Networking Event
Thursday 07 August 2025,
Milton Substation, 259 Milton Street, Sydenham, Christchurch
5.30 pm – 7.30 pm.
JOIN US.
DELON LAFITUANAI 💯
It is with deep gratitude and admiration that we pause to acknowledge a truly outstanding individual, Delon, whose legacy over 26 years of service in youth justice is nothing short of remarkable.
Throughout his career, Delon has embodied the very best of what this work demands: quiet strength, unwavering integrity, and a deep well of compassion. He has carried himself with humility and purpose, showing kindness and empathy in ways that have shaped not only the lives of the young people in our care but also the culture of the spaces he has worked in.
As a proud Samoan man, Delon brings with him the richness of his culture, a strong sense of Aiga, respect, and service. These values are deeply embedded in the way he works and connects with people. His approach is relational, restorative, and grounded in the belief that everyone deserves dignity, understanding, and hope. He advocates fiercely for those whose voices often go unheard, and in doing so, he has left a lasting impact on our young people, our staff, and the wider system.
Delon’s professionalism and insight have led to him being called upon across the country to contribute to some of the most important work in our sector. His quiet leadership has earned him the respect of all who’ve worked alongside him, not through loud words or titles, but through consistency, authenticity, and action.
What makes Delon so extraordinary is not just what he does, but how he does it. He has supported staff across all levels of the organisation, always calm, respectful, and generous with his time. His sense of humour, often appearing just when we need it most, has lifted many of us through tough days. And while he rarely seeks the spotlight, those who know him best understand that he is one of the true anchors in this work, a gentleman in every sense of the word.
Delon is also a deeply devoted family man, and it is clear that the same love and commitment he brings to his work is mirrored in his role as a father and partner. He speaks with pride about his daughter Oshie, supporting her wholeheartedly in her equestrian pursuits, and his son Kenny, who he backs just as fiercely in the boxing ring and on the rugby league field. Behind his calm exterior is a father who turns up, who shows up, and who stands strong behind his family every step of the way. His partner Steph, an incredible contributor to this sector in her own right, completes an Aiga grounded in service, care, and strength.
There is a former colleague now based in Australia who attributes much of his own success to Delon’s unwavering support, and who, if given the opportunity, would bring him across in a heartbeat. That endorsement alone is a reflection of Delon’s quiet but profound influence.
Delon has spent many years working the night shift, often unseen, but always felt, showing the kind of commitment and care that’s hard to replicate. We are fortunate that we convinced him to move to the day shift over a decade ago, where his leadership and wisdom became even more visible to others.
If there was ever someone to aspire to in this organisation, someone whose legacy is built not on position, but on values, it is Delon. He is, without question, a diamond in the rough.
He may not welcome this kind of recognition, but it is well and truly deserved. Grateful is an understatement. Thank you, barely scratches the surface. But today, we say it, thank you, Delon. For your service, your mana, your care, and the way you show up for others, every single day.
There is a Samoan proverb that says: “O le ala i le pule o le tautua” – The pathway to leadership is through service.
We are so excited to see you now stepping into such an important space, where your voice and contribution will help shape better outcomes for our youth and youth workers. Your presence will be invaluable, just as it always has been.