Working alongside tāngata whenua

Te reo and tikanga Māori

Wherever possible, facilitates access to support and information in te reo Māori if this is the older person’s preferred way of communicating.

Upholds the mana and life experiences of each pakeke (adult) or kaumātua (elder) that accesses support, emphasising their strengths and value to whānau and communities. 

Understands what holistic wellbeing and support means for pakeke and kaumātua, including the importance of whānau, mokopuna, and community connections. 

Acknowledges core components of wellbeing for pakeke and kaumātua, such as rangatiratanga, having a sense of purpose, autonomy and cultural identity (such as practicing tikanga); helping others; and wairua (spiritual wellbeing). 

Demonstrates understanding of te ao Māori, tapu and noa, and continually builds on this knowledge. 

Respects the beliefs, values, conceptualisations, and perspectives around aging for pakeke and kaumātua, including whakapapa and mate wareware (dementia). 

Recognises and understands the responsibilities associated with the later stages of life.

Understands when and who to consult with for advice and support for older Māori. For example whānau, kaumātua, hapū, and iwi. 

Promotes cultural safety for pakeke and kaumātua accessing services. 

Identifies and addresses unconscious cultural and identity related bias to ensure inclusive and culturally safe support of pakeke and kaumātua. For example, learns about te ao Māori understandings of sexuality and gender.

Whakawhanaunga

Recognises and understands specific barriers pakeke and kaumātua may face in accessing support. For example, cultural disconnection, mistrust of services, geographical isolation, or lack of culturally appropriate care. 

Recognises later life may be a time when pakeke and kaumātua who have lost connection with iwi, hapū, and whenua may seek reconnection with their whakapapa. 

Recognises the value of social connection for pakeke and kaumātua. 

Facilitates opportunities for reconnection with iwi, hapū, and tūrangawaewae. 

Facilitates opportunities for pakeke and kaumātua to connect with others in ways that uplift their wairua and wellbeing. For example, community celebrations, events and hui. 

In accordance with their preferences, advocates for and helps connect whānau Māori to Māori-specific support services. 

Supports pakeke and kaumātua who want to be cared for in the community by whānau.

Manaaki

Greets pakeke and kaumātua warmly and offers hospitality. For example saying “Kia ora whaea” and offering water or tea at each interaction. 

Understands the value of a welcoming physical environment for pakeke and kaumātua. Such as having wai available for cleansing, as tangible representations of wairua, at the entrance of a service.

Recognises the mana of words and thoughts, and that engaging kaumātua with positivity, respect, and aroha can uplift wairua and have a meaningful impact on wellbeing. 

Understands that supporting whānau or others in the community can promote pakeke and kaumātua wellbeing.

Wairua

Recognises the significance of wairuatanga (spirituality) to many Māori. 

Facilitates discussions to explore and understand the older person’s expressions of wairuatanga, involving kaumātua or other cultural advisors when appropriate. 

Understands the significance of nourishing wairuatanga for Māori living with mate wareware. 

Identifies effective ways to support and nurture wairuatanga.

Tuakiri tangata

Understands that to ensure cultural safety and comfort, some kaumātua may wish to be supported by kaimahi Māori, and facilitates access where possible. 

Supports kaumātua and whānau to access Māori-led and Māori-safe services that strengthen cultural and whānau connections, in line with their preferences. 

Understands specific referral pathways available for older Māori. For example, primary care, addiction services, Māori mental health services, Whānau Ora, Iwi and hapū services, and whānau peer support.

Hauora Māori

Understands and values holistic, meaningful, and culturally safe practices, such as rongoā Māori. 

Applies Te Whare Tapa Whā routinely and competently when exploring kaumātua wellbeing, including taha hinengaro, taha tinana, taha whānau, and taha wairua.