Waikato Hauora Programme Empowers Rangatahi as Health Leaders Across Seven Secondary Schools

A Māori-led initiative is placing Waikato rangatahi at the forefront of health decision-making, aiming to develop the next generation of hauora leaders. As reported by Radio Waatea on Wednesday, 23 September 2026, the Kia Tū Rangatahi Māori Hauora Leadership Programme is now expanding into seven secondary schools across the region. The kaupapa encourages young people to move beyond being passive recipients of care to becoming active designers of health solutions. Brandi Hudson, Tumu Whakarae of the Te Tiratū Iwi Māori Partnership Board, spoke with Radio Waatea’s Matthew Tukaki about the programme’s growth. Te Tiratū represents approximately 121,300 Māori across the Tainui waka rohe, advocating for whānau voices to influence health investment and service delivery. Hudson noted that the Kia Tū programme focuses on giving rangatahi the confidence and opportunity to shape their own wellbeing, rather than simply teaching them about health topics. The programme is currently operating at Te Kauwhata College, Putāruru College, Ōtorohanga College, Tai Wānanga Ki Ruakura, Te Kōpuku High School, Tokoroa High School, and Te Kūiti High School. In these settings, rangatahi engage in conversations regarding mental health, suicide prevention, dental care, and vaping, while simultaneously strengthening their connections to culture and identity. Early insights from the programme highlight the specific challenges facing Māori youth today. A survey of 117 respondents identified school pressure, stress, and lack of sleep as primary wellbeing hurdles. Participants also noted that fear of judgement and uncertainty about where to find support often act as barriers to seeking help. By addressing these issues directly, Kia Tū seeks to empower students to lead discussions within their own communities. Matthew Tukaki highlighted the potential of the initiative to shift the health system's approach, focusing on knowledge and influence before rangatahi ever become patients.