A mental health initiative in Christchurch is leveraging traditional Māori practices like weaving and clay work to support whānau (families) in need. Purapura Whetū, a long-standing organization, serves as a vital resource for struggling whānau, helping them reconnect with Māori culture.
Recognizing the interconnectedness of mental and physical health, Purapura Whetū aims to promote holistic well-being through Māoridom. CEO Karaitiana Tickell highlights the unique services offered by the organization, which often go beyond what mainstream mental health services provide.
“When we’re talking about kaupapa Māori services, our general mainstream system is generally unaware of the details of what’s available. That’s an issue around consciousness raising, issues around resistance, and there’s areas around levels of trust,” Tickell explains.
Founded in 2002, Purapura Whetū is deeply rooted in Māori values and has evolved to address a wide range of health and social service needs. Tickell notes the organization’s growth over the past two decades, offering services from newborn care to support for elders, ensuring comprehensive care for the entire community.
One client, Pearl, shares the impact of the program: “Getting access to Purapura Whetū has been amazing. I’ve found a sense of belonging to something—a family outside of my own family—and I’ve been taught how to love myself again.”
The Rātā Foundation, a Christchurch-based funding organization, has supported Purapura Whetū by funding its move to a new, more accessible location. Rātā Foundation CEO Leighton Evans emphasizes the importance of providing equitable access to facilities and services, ensuring that whānau receive the support they need.
“Our funding helps to provide equitable access to facilities and services in areas of need, which means Purapura Whetū can welcome whānau into a fit-for-purpose space and deliver their programs, ensuring people in need get the right support when they need it,” Evans says. “Staff and volunteers at Purapura Whetū are often on the front line of the response to mental health challenges in the community, and it is important they feel equipped to best serve whānau seeking assistance.”
Despite concerning Youth19 statistics showing an eight percent decline in the positive well-being of young Māori and a 14 percent increase in significant depressive symptoms, the staff at Purapura Whetū remain committed to reversing these trends. They believe their culturally grounded approach is key to addressing these mental health challenges.
“So you have greeted the people, you’ve fed the people, you’ve thanked the people, and you’ve farewelled the people. All of that falls under the auspice of ensuring that mana is upheld, aroha is practiced, we have acknowledged where the principles of tapu and noa play out, that we’ve exchanged in breath and experience and life. These are the elements that we’re looking for in the work we do,” Tickell concludes.
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