In 1997, Pathway began with three individuals, a shared belief, and a unique idea: that people can change their lives with the right tools.
By mid-1998, Pathway Trust was incorporated, and the Alloyfold chair manufacturing plant was set up in Christchurch, New Zealand, starting production of aluminium folding chairs.
In 1999, Alloyfold chairs were marketed to US hire companies, with the first order received.
The Motukarara Camp was gifted to Pathway for accommodation, and by 2001, the church became operational, with Sailor Koia serving as its custodian for two years.
Alloyfold attended the ARA Show in the USA and by 2002 had exported over 25,000 chairs.
In the same year, Oak Tree Devanning was established to employ individuals facing barriers to work.
Carey Ewing became Pathway’s first social worker, creating reintegration strategies for released prisoners.
Wendell Hart joined Alloyfold in Phoenix, helping manage logistics and trade shows, contributing to Alloyfold's success in the USA.
The company received three Deloitte Fast 50 Awards for growth.
Alloyfold’s product range expanded with major installations at Auckland District Court, St Peter Chanel Church, and City Impact Church.
Oak Tree also opened a branch in Auckland, led by Pai Vilitama and Rebecca Breen.
The Total Reintegration Strategy Programme was launched, offering tailored support to help men reintegrate into the community.
Alloyfold expanded into Australia with an office and warehouse in Melbourne and acquired Effuzi Seating in Wellington, bringing Murray on board as the in-house design and installation engineer.
John Hearne launched the Pathway to Employment (P2E) programme at the Retreat, helping long-term unemployed individuals develop work readiness skills, with many participants securing full-time jobs.
The Te Kaupapa Whakaora Restorative Justice Project was launched in collaboration with Pathway, Edmund Justice, and Community Law Canterbury, offering a professional service for victims and offenders to meet safely.
Alloyfold expanded further with new warehouses and offices in Sydney.
The company also partnered with Kusch+Co to bring Australasia Alloyfold Terminal, becoming the exclusive supplier of Kusch+Co's seating products in Australia and New Zealand.
For 26 years, Pathway Charitable Group has supported marginalized individuals through prisoner reintegration, drug treatment, affordable housing, and social enterprises like Alloyfold and Oak Tree Devanning, offering employment and skill-building opportunities. Every success reflects the vision of our founders and the dedication of our staff, supporters, and partners.
Pathway offers second chances through services such as reintegration support, social housing, employment, and addiction recovery. Our social enterprises help individuals rebuild their lives and break the cycle of crime, violence, and poverty. Key programs include He Kete Oranga o te Mana Wāhine, which supports women overcoming addiction and trauma, and affordable housing that provides safe accommodations with access to broader services.
In 2025: Pathway aims to expand its reintegration efforts, building on the success of the Navigate Initiative to impact more individuals. The supported employment service will focus on training and long-term employment, while He Kete Oranga o te Mana Wāhine explores new support options for women. Pathway Affordable Housing plans to add more homes in Christchurch. Oak Tree will build on its restructure to enhance service and community impact. Pathway Fundraising seeks to retain supporters and attract new investment to sustain its community work.
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