Turning loss into proactive culturally responsive support: Tupore Infrastructure
Motivated by the tragic loss of workers to suicide and the ongoing challenges of mental health and addiction, the organisation identified the urgent need for innovative and culturally sensitive methods to support its workforce.
Background
Tūpore Infrastructure, formerly known as Russell Roads, is leading the way in mental health and wellbeing initiatives within the construction sector.
Motivated by the tragic loss of workers to suicide and the ongoing challenges of mental health and addiction, the organisation identified the urgent need for innovative and culturally sensitive methods to support its workforce.
This proactive approach underscores Tūpore's commitment to creating a safer and healthier workplace and community.
Key Initiatives
Kai Raranga Oranga: Tikanga Māori pastoral care
Tūpore created the Kai Raranga Oranga role, known as “Aunty,” to provide pastoral care deeply rooted in tikanga Māori. Aunty builds trust and fosters positive wellbeing culture for staff and their families, ensuring early identification of issues and tailored support services, such as budgeting, EAP, and addiction support.
Suicide Prevention and Postvention Training
Strong partnerships with groups like Mates4Life have enabled Tūpore to deliver comprehensive suicide prevention training to their workforce. Mates4Life staff names and roles are displayed on noticeboards for easy access in times of crisis. The company is also active in industry events, such as Suicide Prevention Week and Mental Health Awareness Week, and use resources from organisations such as Mates in Construction and 1737 Need to Talk around the workplace to maintain a focus on mental wellness.
Employee profit sharing programme
Tūpore have also put their money where their mouth is, introducing a profit-sharing programme where all employees receive an equal share of the company’s profits, supporting the reduction of financial stress and fostering a sense of belonging and fairness.
The George Foundation
In 2022, Tūpore’s owners also established the George Foundation Charitable Trust, funded by 10% of company profits. The Trust focuses on helping children and those in lower socioeconomic areas, contributing significantly to suicide prevention and mental health causes such as Will to Live Charitable Trust and The Breathing Room programme. This philanthropic commitment extends Tūpore’s impact beyond its workforce into the communities it serves.
Impact and Recognition
Through these innovative programmes, Tūpore Infrastructure has set a new standard for mental health and wellbeing in construction. The organisation’s approach is not only improving employee welfare and creating a safer, more supportive workplace, but is also inspiring positive change throughout the sector and wider community. Their work was a deserving winner of the Kalmar Mental Health and Wellbeing Award at our 2025 Evening of Celebration.
Conclusion
Tūpore’s proactive commitment to mental health and wellbeing demonstrates how culturally responsive, peer-led, and community-driven initiatives can transform workplace culture and promote `wellbeing. Their journey serves as a model for others seeking to address mental health challenges in high-risk industries.