Toi Hauora

In June 2023, ringatoi from Te Hapū o Tapu-te-Ranga Marae, supported by the Tapu-te- Ranga Trust, launched the Toi Hauora programme. This initiative grew out of the collective work on Te Ara Haumanu, delivered to te Uri o Tapu-te-Ranga Marae between 2023 and 2024. Through that project, the ringatoi discovered a shared passion for creating programmes to support whānau living with mental health challenges.

Toi Hauora was specifically designed to reduce suicide rates among Māori by fostering positive relationships within the community. These relationships play a vital role in building support systems and enhancing resilience within whānau.

Grounded in the values of whakawhanaungatanga, the Toi Hauora team has excelled in providing a safe and supportive environment for participants. Through Toi Māori (Māori arts) and cultural engagement, the programme has fostered the holistic development of Māori in our community.

In 2024, Toi Hauora made a significant impact, with over 50 participants from Lower Hutt and Wellington City joining the programme. Many of these individuals attended up to 15 sessions, highlighting the programme's strong retention and ongoing engagement.

We offer our deepest gratitude to our whānau, hapū, iwi, sponsors, and community partners for their unwavering support. Special thanks to ringatoi James Stewart, Rikki Porter-Samuels, and Mihiata Tupou for sharing your skills, talents, and passion. And a special thank you to Aniwaniwa Porter-Samuels for facilitating the programme and making everyone feel welcomed. Your contributions have embodied the spirit of Toi Hauora and played a critical role in its continued success.

Ngā mihi nui,