Citizens Advice Bureau in New Zealand, known as CAB, was established in 1970, replicating the British Citizens Advice charity. The Māori name, Nga Pou Whakawhirinaki o Aotearoa, reflects a place for seeking help, solace, and strength. The organisation's logo features a manaia motif symbolizing protection, unlike the British owl symbol, which holds negative connotations for some iwi.[1][2]
Similar to the British charity, its twin aims are to “ensure that individuals do not suffer through ignorance of their rights and responsibilities” and “exert a responsible influence to the development of social policies and services”.[3] CAB operates 80 branches nationwide with over 2000 volunteers. [4][5]