About Bellbird
Our Way of Working
At Bellbird, we support community and social service practitioners to feel capable and confident in their work — to do good mahi, and to do it well.
Our suite of services, including coaching, workshops, consultation, and community initiatives, is designed to give individuals and organisations the tools, confidence, and connection they need to thrive. We work alongside people and communities who are dedicated to improving the wellbeing of individuals, whānau, hapū, iwi, and the wider social sector.
How We Work
We come together when there’s good mahi to be done — whether that’s designing and delivering training, supporting organisations through change, mentoring leaders, or building spaces that connect and inspire.
Our approach is:
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Collaborative – valuing relationships, collective wisdom, and the power of working together
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Authentic – grounded in practice, community, and heart
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Flexible – recognising that meaningful work happens when people can bring their full selves
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Impact-focused – committed to lasting, positive change for people and communities
We believe in the strength of collaboration — between practitioners, organisations, and communities — to create sustainable, systems-level impact. Through the expertise of our collective, including specialists in community development, collective impact, and organisational wellbeing, we help communities design solutions that make sense locally and create change that lasts.
What We Offer
Our work takes many forms, depending on what’s needed:
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Public and hosted workshops – interactive, practice-focused training that builds capability and confidence
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Supervision and coaching – professional and personal support for reflective, resilient practice
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Mentoring and development programmes – nurturing leadership and growth within the social and community sector
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Consultation and strategy – partnering with organisations and communities to strengthen systems, structures, and culture
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Speaking and facilitation – bringing ideas to life through conferences, forums, and community events
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Community-based initiatives – supporting collective approaches to wellbeing, collaboration, and impact
Connect, Share, Inspire
Bellbird also hosts events that bring people together — to share ideas, to celebrate good work, and to reignite purpose. Our annual Bellbird Conference is a highlight of the year, offering space for reflection, inspiration, and connection across the sector. These gatherings are designed to equip people with practical tools, spark new thinking, and remind us all why this work matters.
At its heart, Bellbird is a nest — a place where ideas take flight, and where the collective strength of our flock helps everyone soar.
Meet The Team
Kelly Anne Panapa
Associate
Known for expertise in bicultural policy frameworks and cultural transformation, efforts are focused on building inclusive systems that empower sustainable, community-led outcomes. Combining strategic acumen with a commitment to advancing Māori flourishing, the work reflects a passion for creating equitable platforms and fostering partnerships that drive meaningful progress.
Felicity Jansonius-Bidois
Associate
Experienced project and policy professional with a focus on social impact, community development and youth engagement. Passionate advocate for the community, especially for tamariki and taiohi.
Rachael Bell
Bellbird Founder
I have over 20 years’ experience as a qualified social worker, in a variety of roles including advisory training, and service delivery, all with a focus on child protection and the wellbeing of whānau. Part of my roles within management have been to work within the Quality Management system, including developing systems for continuous improvement and providing practice guidance and support to teams of social service practitioners.
Our Values
Tika / Integrity
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To be ethical, trustworthy and respectful in everything we do.
Mātauranga / Knowledge
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To have humility and understanding of the importance for continuous improvement and development.
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To share knowledge for the development of others and the betterment of the community we serve.
Mahi Tahi / Partnership
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To work together with the recognition that together we achieve something greater than as individuals.
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To hold respected relationships with all those with whom we work.
Manaakitanga / Care
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To show respect, generosity and care to all people, their whānau and community.
Our Associates
While connected to Bellbird, our Associates maintain their own professional identity, business, and independence. We celebrate that individuality — it’s what gives the collective its richness, diversity, and adaptability.