An innovative iwi-led model designed to help kaumātua age with dignity on their whenua is being hailed as a world-first approach that could reshape the future of aged care across Aotearoa.
Te Puke o Tūrangi is leading a collaborative vision across Te Manawa Taki that brings together iwi, whānau, health providers and communities to create a new model of care centred on whakapapa, whenua and whānau.
Dr Mariana Morrison says the papakāinga model represents a significant shift away from traditional aged care systems that often require older people to leave their homes, communities and cultural connections to access support.
Instead, the model places kaumātua at the centre, enabling them to remain on their whenua while receiving coordinated clinical care, social support and assistance from trained whānau carers.
The approach combines regular health monitoring and professional oversight with the strengths already present within whānau and communities. Rather than separating care from culture, the model integrates both, recognising the importance of identity, belonging and connection to place in maintaining wellbeing.
A key feature is its workforce strategy, which focuses on supporting and training whānau members who are already providing care for their kaumātua. Advocates say formalising this workforce could improve care quality, strengthen health outcomes and create meaningful employment and career pathways within Māori communities.
The initiative recognises that many whānau carers have been carrying out essential work for years with little formal recognition, training or support. By investing in skills development and accreditation, the model aims to build a sustainable Māori health workforce while ensuring kaumātua receive consistent and culturally grounded care.
Dr Morrison says the model has already been developed, accredited and is ready for implementation. The next challenge is securing the investment and policy backing needed to expand it throughout Te Manawa Taki and eventually across the country.
Supporters argue the model aligns closely with aspirations for Māori-led healthcare solutions and could help address growing demand for aged care services as New Zealand’s population continues to age.
They say long-term success will require government commitment, flexible funding arrangements and policies that recognise iwi as equal partners in designing and delivering healthcare services.
For Te Puke o Tūrangi, the goal is not only to improve outcomes for kaumātua, but to create a system where ageing is viewed through the lens of mana, whānau and connection to whenua rather than institutional care alone.
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