About Ngākau Collective
My Why
Ngākau Collective was born from my own journey of healing and reconnection. I’ve always known I was meant to help others, though I didn’t always know how. Over time, I realised I’d been doing it all along — through everyday life, through listening, and through walking beside people in their own challenges.
Through my own journey, I learned resilience. That strength became a foundation for how I live and how I guide. Now, I share those lessons so others might find their own resilience and move forward with fewer of the speed bumps I faced.
Ngākau Mission
To guide and empower those on their journey of self-discovery, growth, and alignment with their authentic selves — through intuitive, heart-centred approaches grounded in te ao Māori.
Ngākau Vision
To foster a compassionate, empowered community where people live connected to their authentic selves and contribute positively to whānau and society through their growth and self-awareness.
Ngākau Belief
Ngākau Collective is a gentle reminder of what we’ve always known.
Our rhythm is ancient, our truth is waiting, and our alignment has never been lost, only forgotten.
Here, we remember who we are, authentic, grounded, and guided by the quiet knowing of our ngākau.
The Story Behind the Name
Ngākau means heart. Ngākau Collective among other things, is an acknowledgement of the lives lost in my whānau to heart problems — too many, too young, including my big brother. He was my greatest supporter and lived manaaki and aroha in a way that left a lasting legacy.
Ngākau Collective is my way of honouring him and all those we’ve lost. When he passed, I found the courage to take up the mantle he modelled so beautifully — to lead with aroha, to uphold manaaki, and to carry the heart of our whānau forward.
About the Founder/ Kaitiaki
Tēnā koe, ko Verna Maihi ahau.
I am the founder and kaitiaki of Ngākau Collective — weaving indigenous wisdom, intuitive guidance, and creative expression into every offering. This is where I bring all of me: Ngāti Porou through my Māmā, and Ngāpuhi through my Dad.
I’m a Virgo and a Life Path 1, grounded in detail, driven by purpose, and here to lead with heart.
I’m a māmā, a wife, daughter, sister, cousin, niece and a friend, and I hold this space with safety so you can be your authentic self.
I carry this mahi with gratitude and aroha, and I’m honoured to walk alongside those ready to begin their own journey —
Because healing is a journey, and your ngākau knows the way.
Certifications & Professional Training
These qualifications support the heart-led mahi that I bring to Ngākau Collective, alongside 28 years of leadership experience in the corporate world.
Energy Healing Practitioner
Geo Love Healing - 2020
Certified Life Coach
Atmana Academy - 2022
Project Management
MCI - 2025
