PĀNUI
NEWS
He Kaimahi Tēnei - Junior Salevao.
17/03/2026
When Junior Salevao arrived in Christchurch from Sāmoa in 2003, it was only meant to be a holiday. Like many journeys that begin unexpectedly, that short visit eventually became a new chapter of life.
Today, Junior works with Whakahohoro Te Hau, supporting people through mental health crisis and some of the most difficult moments they may face. It is work that requires patience, humility and a steady presence, qualities shaped by both his life experiences and the path that brought him here.
Before stepping into this space, Junior was known to many through sport. Shortly after arriving in Christchurch he was spotted by coaching staff playing Division 4 rugby and soon found himself moving up the ranks. What began as a casual game eventually led to Canterbury University’s Division 1 side and selection in the Canterbury development squad.
His rugby journey later took him to Marist Albion, where he developed a love for the sevens format and earned representative honours there as well. A shoulder injury eventually shifted the direction of his playing career, leading him to rugby league where he would once again go on to represent Canterbury.
While his playing days have since come to an end, sport remains a central part of his life.
“My faith helps me sit with people in those moments. It helps me meet them where they’re at.”
At home, Junior is first and foremost a husband and a father to eight children, a household where sport, training and competition are part of everyday life.
“Consistency is the biggest lesson sport gave me. You can’t just train once and expect results. You show up every day, and that’s the same approach I bring into this work.”
It is an approach that serves him well in the crisis support space, where relationships and trust are built over time.
For Junior, the work is deeply personal.
Having experienced difficult moments in his own life, he understands the weight people can carry when they reach out for support. That lived experience shapes the way he shows up for the people he works alongside.
“It’s the privilege of walking with someone at one of the hardest points in their life. I don’t take that lightly. I hold it very close to my heart.”
Early in his time with the team, a moment confirmed that this was exactly where he was meant to be. A man arrived seeking support whose life story closely mirrored Junior’s own experiences.
Seeing someone navigating a path he had once walked himself reinforced the sense that his journey had prepared him for this role.
Faith is another important foundation in Junior’s life. As a Christian, it shapes the way he approaches both family and work, providing a framework for how he supports people during moments of uncertainty and distress.
Many of the people Whakahohoro Te Hau works alongside have been exposed to heavy drug use or difficult circumstances. For them, the experiences they describe can feel overwhelming and very real.
As a proud Samoan man working in mental health crisis support, Junior also understands the significance of being visible in this space.
For many Pasifika communities, conversations around mental health have historically been difficult.
“Back in the day we didn’t talk about mental health. If someone said they were struggling, people didn’t really understand it. If people can see someone like me doing this work, maybe it opens a door.”
Outside of work, Junior has found a simple way to maintain balance.
Golf.
Living close to a course means he often finishes a shift with a round before heading home. It gives him the space to clear his mind and transition back into family life.
“Back in the day we didn’t talk about mental health. If someone said they were struggling, people didn’t really understand it. If people can see someone like me doing this work, maybe it opens a door.”
“I don’t want to carry work home with me. By the time I get home, I’ve let it go and I’m ready to be a dad again.”
For Junior, the purpose of the mahi remains clear.
To support people, to walk alongside them when life becomes overwhelming, and to remind them that help is there when they need it.
“Sometimes people shy away from asking for help. But everyone needs support somewhere along the line. That’s what we’re here for.”
A proud husband, father and community kaimahi, Junior continues to bring compassion, consistency and heart to the mahi he does each day.
Stay tuned in the coming weeks as we continue to put the spotlight on the incredible kaimahi across He Waka Tapu and the many ways they show up for our community.
