The Kia Piki Te Ora and Te Hiku Rongoā Māori Collective teams recently hosted a Healing Wānanga at Te Whare Rongoā (Tihei Wā Mauri Ora) on 17 November 2025. With over 80 whānau, kaimahi and practitioners in attendance, the day created a safe and culturally grounded space for healing and connection.

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A Day of Healing and Reflection

Throughout the day, Te Whare Rongoā became a space where whānau could pause, reflect and reconnect. The wānanga offered opportunities to engage in mirimiri and romiromi, explore rongoā Māori, experience Taonga Pūoro, and take part in open kōrero around suicide and wellbeing.

There was a strong sense of aroha and collective support in the room. Whānau were welcomed to participate in ways that felt right for them — whether through hands-on learning, quiet reflection, or meaningful conversations.

 

Healing in Many Forms

Mirimiri and romiromi sessions, led by Atarangi Murupaenga and her team, provided space for physical and emotional release. For many, the experience encouraged deeper reflection and highlighted the importance of ongoing support beyond the session itself.

The rongoā workshops, facilitated by Tuia Maara Whenua Roopū Rongoā, supported whānau to learn about plant identification, healing properties and practical uses. Participants created wairākau inu and balms to take home, strengthening self-healing practices within their own whare.

Taonga Pūoro sessions created a powerful space for connection and honest kōrero. Discussions included normalising conversations around suicide, removing shame, and encouraging open, safe dialogue within our communities.

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Strengthening Collective Wellbeing

The wānanga was a reminder that healing can come in many forms — through being heard, learning something new, connecting with others, or simply being surrounded by care. Many whānau left feeling supported and encouraged to continue their journey, with some choosing to engage further through ongoing kaupapa such as Fabulous Fridays.

This Healing Wānanga reflected the strength of working collectively, grounded in tikanga and guided by the wisdom of our tūpuna. It demonstrated the power of creating culturally safe spaces where whānau can heal, connect and move forward together.

Ngā mihi nui to all who contributed their time, mātauranga and presence to make the day possible. Your tautoko continues to strengthen the wellbeing of our people.