At S.T.A.R.T, our symbol is the pāua — the New Zealand abalone. It’s a shell we deeply admire: rough and rugged on the outside, yet hiding a vibrant burst of colour within. Designed by nature to withstand the harshness of the sea, the pāua shell protects the beauty inside.

Similarly, we understand that people often develop their own protective armour to shield their inner selves. At S.T.A.R.T, we honour that resilience — and through our core modalities of Social Work, Therapy, and Relevant Training, we aim to gently support individuals (and those who work alongside them) in uncovering and expressing their inner brilliance.

So you can:

Paua shell is also thought to promote clear communication, compassion and emotional balance. Strategies that S.T.A.R.T also embrace and promote.