In 2024, we launched He Ara Whakamana Tāngata, a groundbreaking new wellbeing service for the tenants in our HomeGround and Te Ao Mārama apartments.  Embedded in Mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge), the programme provides tenants with holistic support that nurtures healing, reconnection, and restoration. 

While the programme takes a Te Ao Māori approach, all tenants can benefit from the support available. 

“It’s an empowerment journey. We help give people purpose again, help them get back their identity.” explains Team Leader Kaylene Edwards. 

The support provided is tailored to meet each person’s specific needs: “Everyone comes to us as an individual. They tell us what their needs are. With the different roles in our team, people can tap into the support which is right for them.” 

“We have a Mental Health Nurse. We also have a Wairua Practitioner who focuses on spiritual healing. They work side by side, bringing together both worlds [western and Te Ao Māori]. We have a Rongoā Practitioner, who helps tenants release trauma through kairomiromi and traditional Māori medicine.”  

“We also have an AOD (Alcohol and other Drugs) peer support worker, who has lived experience, and is now a mentor for our whānau. He works closely with the Pou Whirinaki, who engages whānau through activities like kapa haka, te reo classes, art classes, mana tāne (a men’s group) and a weekly hīkoi. The activities are created to help people to reconnect with themselves and the community.” 

“Finally, our Kaumātua guides and holds us on the right path with her knowledge and wisdom.” 

“Since engaging with the programme, both tenants and staff have noticed a calmer, more settled environment in the apartment buildings.”