Our Name

Human relationships require interaction to begin, thrive, and be sustained. The name ‘Interactionz’, or ‘Tari whakawhitinga’, signifies connection, communication and the importance we place on relationships – the essence of our work as a community builder. 

We operate mostly in New Zealand (though we have worked with international clients), hence the ‘nz’ at the end of our name. People often misread Interactionz as Interaction NZ, but we’ve decided to keep it anyway – it’s easier to say.  

Our te reo Maaori name, Tari Whakawhitinga (organisation/office of relationships), was gifted to us by Matua Pakira Watene when we began trading as Interactionz in 2009.  

Interactionz’ sign language name was gifted to us by Jean Masters. See the diagram below. Both hands are in a claw position. The right hand has the palm facing downwards, and the left hand has the palm facing upwards. The top hand rotates horizontally anticlockwise above the bottom hand, which rotates clockwise. It is similar to the word ‘socialise’ or ‘mix’.

Our Tagline

Tari Whakawhitinga, or Interactionz’, tagline – Creating a Way Forward, Together!, or, Atamai Whakatinanatanga, a Hinengaro, a Wairua, a Tinana! – is about choice and control for all people, acknowledging a person’s mind, body, and spirit and how Interactionz is part of their journey. The tagline is in italics to represent moving forward. 

Our Logo

Our logo represents who we are and what we do, our focus on people and relationships, the services we offer, our beliefs and values and Interactionz’ vision. 

It is encapsulated in a koru to symbolise protection, nurturing, new beginnings and growth and has elements to represent the three services we currently offer: Mentoring, Learning and Development, and Visual Communication. 

Colourful stylised people show the importance of people and diversity in our work, and equity for all in our communities. The people are engaged with each other and looking to the path ahead.  

The path leads into the mountains, representing our future where the sun is shining. It signifies honouring our past, present and future. The path is drawn by a pencil. The eraser on the pencil represents mistakes we make in life and what they teach us – and that it’s okay to make mistakes.  

A speech bubble represents everyone having a voice, and that we can learn, discard learnings that no longer serve us (unlearn), and relearn. 

Our Future

Interactionz is always learning, evolving and innovating to provide relevant services. There is room in the logo to add other services or cultural elements if needed. 

Ultimately, our logo represents the positive influence we have on people.