A kaupapa Māori initiative in the Eastern Bay of Plenty is being recognised for providing a whānau-centred alternative to traditional pathways into support services for tamariki, rangatahi and their families.
Te Pūkāea o te Waiora, known as Te Pūkāea, works alongside whānau within the oranga tamariki system, offering a community-led approach that focuses on early support and connection rather than statutory intervention.
Represented by spokesperson Miria Tarau, Te Pūkāea provides an alternative entry point for whānau seeking help, ensuring families are connected to the services and resources they need while remaining at the centre of decision-making.
The organisation’s latest report highlights positive outcomes for tamariki, rangatahi and whānau, with many families receiving support before issues escalate to the point where statutory intervention is required. The findings reinforce the value of kaupapa Māori-led solutions that prioritise relationships, cultural identity and whānau wellbeing.
A key feature of the Te Pūkāea model is its commitment to ensuring every referral receives a response. Even in cases where a statutory Oranga Tamariki response is not required, whānau are still connected with community organisations, health providers, social services and cultural support networks that can assist them on their journey.
Advocates say the approach helps close gaps in the current system by ensuring families are not left without support simply because they do not meet the threshold for formal intervention.
The report also provides insights into opportunities for improvement across the wider oranga tamariki system. These include greater investment in kaupapa Māori services, stronger partnerships with iwi and community providers, and a greater focus on prevention and early intervention.
Supporters of the model say the findings demonstrate the effectiveness of whānau-led approaches and reinforce the importance of empowering Māori communities to design and deliver solutions that best meet the needs of their people.
As discussions continue around the future direction of the oranga tamariki system, Te Pūkāea’s experience is being viewed as an example of how culturally grounded, community-led initiatives can strengthen outcomes for tamariki, rangatahi and whānau across Aotearoa.
