Kaupapa Māori Leader Advocates for Whānau-Centred Mental Health Solutions

A prominent kaupapa Māori mental health leader is calling for a shift toward whānau-centred solutions and increased investment in Māori-led services to address national mental health disparities. On Friday 16 October 2026, Carole Koha, Pou Kaihautū of Te Waka Whaiora, highlighted the vital role of culturally grounded prevention strategies that prioritise whakapapa and a sense of belonging at the core of wellbeing. Speaking as new figures were released for the 2025/26 reporting year, Koha emphasised that kaupapa Māori providers offer a framework that addresses mental, physical, and spiritual health collectively. Based in the wider Wellington region, Te Waka Whaiora operates on the principle that recovery and resilience are strengthened when people can access support that reflects their cultural identity and lived experiences. Koha’s advocacy comes during Mental Health Awareness Week, which this year carries the theme “Belonging Matters.” The focus highlights how connection to whānau, whenua, and marae serves as a critical protective factor for Māori, particularly for rangatahi navigating modern social pressures. Advocates argue that while the Government’s Suicide Prevention Action Plan recognises the importance of Māori-led approaches, practical investment is now required to sustain the workforce and expand early intervention programmes. According to the report by Waatea News, the challenge for the sector remains ensuring that policy commitments translate into long-term funding certainty. This would allow community-based organisations to recruit skilled staff and maintain the deep relationships with whānau necessary for consistent support. By fostering environments where open conversations are encouraged and stigma is challenged, community organisations and marae continue to play a pivotal role in ensuring young people feel valued and supported within their own identity.