Our Work | Ā Mātou Mahi

We carry out kaupapa Māori research that strengthens Māori Christian leadership and empowers communities across theology, social innovation, and cultural wellbeing.

At the heart of our work lies a deep commitment to serving the Māori community, recognising that service is both an expression of ministry and mission. Our efforts are grounded in a sincere desire to walk alongside whānau, hapū, and iwi, supporting the flourishing of Māori life through culturally responsive initiatives that align with our shared values of manaakitanga, aroha, and whanaungatanga.

Māori Christian Leadership & Decolonising Theology

We approach Māori Christian leadership as a collective journey, one that embraces relational and distributed expressions of leadership. In this space, leadership is not about power but about shared responsibility and mutual empowerment. We seek to foster an inclusive theological framework that reflects the richness of Māori culture, where every voice is valued and the diversity within the community is honoured. Through these efforts, we aim to support the broader mission of a church that is rooted in both Māori identity and Christian faith.
Cultural Competence (Pouhono Training)

Through the Pouhono Framework, we aim to equip kaumātua carers with the knowledge and cultural sensitivity needed to provide care that honours Māori values. We hope that this will lead to a more compassionate and holistic approach to ministry, ensuring that those who serve are better able to support the well-being of kaumātua in line with tikanga and wairuatanga.
Language Trauma and Wairuatanga

We recognise the healing that comes with reclaiming one’s language and cultural identity. The Language Trauma Project offers a pathway for adult learners to heal from the effects of language suppression, empowering them to reconnect with their roots and spiritual essence. This work is a small but meaningful step towards restoring a sense of wholeness, and we are honoured to contribute to this process.
Theology & Mental Health Integration

In our ministry, we strive to integrate the care of both body and spirit. Through our Mental Health & Theology Network workshop and writing retreat, we foster conversations on how mental health and spirituality intersect, and how the church can be a place of healing and support. This dialogue seeks to provide a more holistic and inclusive approach to mental well-being, recognising the diverse needs of those we serve.

Key Areas

Our Projects in Action

Kaumātua Needs Assessment (Selwyn Foundation)

Through this initiative, we have listened to kaumātua and worked with iwi to co-design culturally responsive aged concern services. We seek to empower kaumātua to shape services that reflect tikanga and wairuatanga, allowing their voices to guide the care they receive.
TWROM Programme Evaluation

In evaluating the TWROM non-violence programme, we have learned that safe, tikanga-informed spaces can transform lives. Our hope is that by expanding this programme, we can extend its positive impact to whānau, hapū, and iwi, reaching more people with love and support.
Language Trauma Project (Wānanga Ihorangi)

In this project, we have supported a tertiary institution to support adult learners in overcoming whakamā and reclaiming their language. It is our privilege to play a small part in their journey towards healing, wholeness, and reconnection with their cultural identity.
Mental Health & Theology Network Workshop and Writing Retreats

Through this work, we have sought to provide space for open dialogue on mental health and theology. Our aim is to create a more inclusive, healing environment where the church can support practical theologians to apply their knowledge in service to those struggling with mental well-being, offering hope, understanding, and care.