This post is part of a short series sharing key stories from our Annual Report 2024–2025.
Last year marked two decades since WBOP PHO supported its first Kaupapa Māori programme, a pioneering initiative delivered by Te Puna i Rangiriri Trust that continues to thrive today. Designed to empower rangatahi Māori to realise their potential through the traditional discipline of mau rākau, the programme is grounded in Mātauranga Māori and delivered in te reo Māori.
Mau Rākau programme nurtures physical fitness, mental resilience, cultural identity and holistic wellbeing. Through the traditional training methods of our tūpuna, participants build self-awareness and make positive life choices that strengthen their connection to culture and community.
The collective learning environment fosters kotahitanga and collaboration between schools, supported by dedicated volunteers and graduates whose ongoing contributions ensure the programme’s continued success.
Highlights this year included the enthusiasm of new participants, the growing leadership of senior tauira (students) and the steadfast support of graduates and community members. The enduring success of this kaupapa reflects the strength of Māori knowledge systems in promoting health, identity and unity, with mau rākau standing as a living expression of cultural vitality across the rohe.
Other Kaupapa Māori and Iwi-Led services we support
Ngāi Te Rangi
- Ngāi Te Rangi HbU – How Bout U: Mobile health unit offering free health and social services to priority communities, delivering at least 940 clinical hours each year.
- Koi Ora: Leadership programme supporting rangatahi to strengthen hauora Māori through mentoring, knowledge sharing, networking and goal setting.
- He Kokonga Ngākau: Whānau support service working with Accessible Properties tenants to identify and manage health and wellbeing needs.
Ngāti Ranginui
- Ngāti Ranginui Mauri Ora: Offers programmes that empower whānau to improve their health and wellbeing, including spiritual wellness, mental health and connectedness to whānau and community.
- Mataora: Includes Mental Health and Addiction Co-existing Problems Counselling, Trauma Counselling and Peer Support Advocacy. Services focus on individual and whānau transformation within the iwi, hapū and community.
- Community Nutrition Services: Supports individuals and whānau affected by obesity, diabetes and related conditions. It provides long-term support, regular follow-ups and group activities.
- Te Ahunga Whānau: Long-term conditions outreach and shared care service in collaboration with WBOP PHO, iwi, practices and hauora providers. Led by a multidisciplinary team, including Kaiawhina, Registered Nurses and Nurse Practitioners.
