Kapa haka and the importance of connection emerged as major contributors to whānau oranga in the newly released Whānau Voice Insights Report 2025, with warnings about the impact vaping is having on rangatahi also highlighted.

“Whānau shared how kapa haka and connection uplift oranga - strengthening identity, whakapapa, te reo and a deep sense of belonging. They spoke of kapa haka as a source of pride and collective strength, and how connection to culture, whenua and trusted relationships are essential to oranga,” said Hikitia Ropata, Āti Awa Toa Hauora Partnership Board Manahautū.

“At the same time, whānau raised concerns about the impact vaping is having on rangatahi, the cost of dental care for adults, long waits and the lack of Māori-led services. Their voices should help guide decision makers: invest in what keeps whānau connected and thriving and challenge the barriers that hold whānau back.”

Whānau described kapa haka as strengthening identity, pride, te reo, whakapapa and whanaungatanga, while supporting discipline, fitness and deep mental and spiritual wellbeing (Te Ihi, Te Wehi, Te Wana).

“Across the region, whānau consistently emphasised the importance of connection - to culture, to whānau, to whenua and to trusted people within the health system.”

The report coincides with Māwharu in the Maramataka, a phase associated with Whakatau (mental wellbeing) and Whakaora (physical wellbeing).

“The themes shared by whānau align closely with the meaning of this phase: oranga is built through connection to each other, to culture, and to services that understand our realities,” said Ms Ropata.

Whānau insights were also gathered from kapa haka performers, support crews and whānau attending Te Matatini, confirming the deep cultural and social value kapa haka provides across our rohe.

Summary of Key Findings

Whānau identified several barriers that disrupt their connection to care, including high costs, long waits, transport challenges in rural areas, workforce shortages, and a lack of culturally safe, Māori-led services. Despite being enrolled with primary care, many still cannot access timely or affordable support, with access to mental health support particularly poor (60% reporting difficulties).

Whānau also raised strong concerns about rising vaping among rangatahi and the easy availability of vape products near kura. They want kaupapa Māori cessation pathways, tighter regulation, and earlier prevention efforts, delivered by trusted Māori providers.

Immunisation is generally supported, but hesitancy remains. Whānau prefer vaccinations delivered by Māori providers, in trusted places such as kura, kōhanga and marae, where connection drives engagement.

Across all findings, the message is consistent: strengthen connection to people, culture and place; invest in services by Māori, for Māori; and build a strong Māori workforce supported by prevention-focused, te ao Māori–grounded approaches. These insights provide clear direction for future commissioning and system change

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