Te Whare Tapa Wha

Te Whare Tapa Whā is a holistic Māori model of health, that was developed by leading Māori health advocate Sir Mason Durie in 1984. It represents wellbeing as a wharenui (meeting house) with four interconnected pillars: tinana (Physical), hinengaro (Mental), wairau (spiritual), whānau (Family/relationships), all grounded by a connection to the whenua (land)..

• Taha Tinana (Physical wellbeing): How your body grows, feels, and moves. It represents physical wellbeing and the fuel you provide your body.
• Taha Hinengaro (Mental/Emotional): Your mind, thoughts, and feelings. It encompasses how you express yourself and your ability to cope with life's ups and downs.
• Taha Wairua (Spiritual wellbeing): Your personal beliefs, values, and connection to the wider environment. It focuses on the non-material aspects of life and inner peace.
• Taha Whānau (Family and social relationships): Your extended whānau, community, friends, and social connections. It relates to the feeling of belonging and who you share your life with.

These four pillars rest upon a vital foundation: Whenua (Land/Roots). The whenua represents your connection to the earth, your roots, and the spaces where you feel safe and able to be yourself. If one of these pillars collapse, the wharenui becomes off balance. We are dedicated to help keep all of these pillars balanced and we will come up with a support package that is tailored to your needs or point you in the right direction to where you can access help.