At ETEL, supporting our community is closely connected to who we are, how we operate, and the people we work alongside every day. We believe that strong businesses have a responsibility to invest not just in their own success, but in the wellbeing, safety and development of the people and places around them. Our team shares that belief and there is genuine pride across ETEL in the partnerships and programmes we are part of.

One of ETEL's longest-standing community partnerships is with the Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust, which has provided critical, life-saving emergency response across the upper North Island since 2004. It's a cause that resonates deeply with our team because when it matters most, rapid response saves lives.

That same commitment to supporting people extends into our own workplace. In 2024, ETEL partnered with WorkSafe to deliver the Puataunofo Health & Safety programme, tailored specifically for Pacific workers in high-risk industries. Delivered in participants' own languages, the workshops provided practical tools to stay safe at work, at home, and within their communities.

ETEL also partnered with Learning Wave to deliver the Owning My Future programme — a 14-week course focused on building confidence, communication, literacy, numeracy and practical workplace skills. Eighteen employees completed the programme, with outcomes that extended well beyond the workplace.

One participant reflected:

"This course helped me understand myself and others better, value diversity, and set goals for the future. I am grateful for the opportunity and would highly recommend it to anyone who wants to build confidence and prepare for life's next step."

A team leader added:

"I've seen real growth in confidence and communication in the participants — it's great to see team members stepping up, taking on new responsibilities, and continuing to support the team."