For us, being kaupapa Māori means living through tikanga – emphasising Māori culture and values, while being inclusive of people from all ethnicities and backgrounds.
Being kaupapa Māori means making a difference in the lives of tāngata, surrounding them with a support-based environment adopting Māori values of respect and whānau. As a kaupapa Māori service, we have practices that encourage wellbeing, although we are based on Māori culture and values, we accept and value all cultural practices, inviting tāngata to maintain their own cultural traditions and values alongside tikanga.
Cultural support for Māori tāngata is provided through our kaumatua and kuia (elders within the organisation) and kaimahi (staff) and through the support from local kaumatua and kuia (elders).
Māori people receiving support are provided with an environment that develops their rangatiratanga (leadership/sovereignty), acknowledges their whakapapa (genealogy), respects their tribal kawa (marae protocol), and supports the use of te reo. Tāngata and kaimahi pōwhiri into the organisation, also karakia (prayers) and waiata/himene (hymns) are encouraged.
