The head of Hamilton-based charity Rauawaawa says there is an increasing need for the kaumātua support her trust provides.
Rangimahora Reddy says there has been an increase in kaumātua taking on the burden of raising mokopuna – and that is affecting their health.
The trust supports nearly 700 kaumātua, and it’s keen to help other Maori communities who want to do the same.
“Rauawaawa has taken at least two decades of some really hard work. So, what our aim would be to do, would be to share our learnings and whatever journeys we undertake – so that others don’t suffer that time frame,” she says.
Ms Reddy says there is also a need for not-for-profit Māori operated retirement homes – which residents are happy with because they are culturally appropriate.
