Mana Wāhine and the kaupapa of whanaungatanga
Nā Rachelle Tauroa
Our Whakatū Hauora Hub was filled warmth, laughter and meaningful kōrero as we welcomed wāhine and whānau to our Mana Wāhine Hauora Day on 11 April.
For the first time, we hosted Mana Wāhine in this new space, where our fully trained healthcare kaimahi could offer services and supports under one roof, including cervical screening and the HPV self-swab test.
From the moment wāhine arrived, the kaupapa of whanaungatanga was felt. The day unfolded at an unhurried pace, allowing space for connection, trust and gentle encouragement. Supported by Te Whatu Ora National Programme Support, Nelson Tasman Pasifika Community Trust, our dedicated kaimahi and volunteers, wāhine were able to access screening, immunisations and holistic hauora checks in a safe, culturally grounded environment.
Beyond clinical care, the heart of the day lay in conversation. Over kai and a warm cup of tea, wāhine shared stories, asked questions and connected with services that support their wider wellbeing. Tamariki were immunised and hapū māmā were supported.
Wāhine also worked with kaimahi to plan their hauora pathways, through referrals to Te Piki Oranga services such as Te Hā (smoking cessasion), the Cancer Care team, bowel screening and breast screening, WellChild Tamariki Ora and health coaches. We also made external referrals such as to GPs, where needed.
As the day closed, we were reminded that raising awareness is not just about information, it is about relationships. Together, we created a space where wāhine felt seen, supported and empowered to prioritise their hauora.
Me whakahaumanu te mana o te whānau, a ka haere whakamua.
Our multidisciplinary Mana Wāhine kaimahi
Left: Miraka Norgate, Kaye MacDonald and Noi Burgess
Right: Gift packs for wāhine