Te Toi Ora ki Whāingaroa
Te Toi Ora ki Whāingaroa takes a tikanga Māori approach to health and wellbeing, providing connection, care, and support for kaumātua and whānau across Whāingaroa.
Established in 2020 to respond to the needs of whānau during COVID-19, the charitable trust continues to nurture wellbeing through culturally grounded programmes, outreach clinics, and marae-based initiatives.
Kaumātua groups meet at Poihākena Marae on Wainui Road and Maketu Marae in Kawhia, offering activities and connection for the wiser members of our community. Programmes include Kai Pai (cooking nutritious food on a budget), haerenga (trips), wānanga (workshops and learning), and health and wellbeing sessions. The kaumātua also care for a large raised garden patch at Poihākena Marae, fostering both physical activity and shared purpose.
There’s all that wisdom that sits with our elders. They come from another word and it’s quite cool to have that knowledge mingling between the different ages. – Verna Tuteao, Pou ārahi/facilitator (2024)
Local physiotherapist Lesley Thornley regularly supports kaumātua with mobility, recovery, and rehabilitation, while outreach health clinics provide accessible healthcare in a warm, welcoming environment. Clinics are held every two weeks, alternating between Te Papatapu Marae and Mai Uenuku ki te Whenua Marae, with a doctor and nurse from Raglan Medical in attendance.
Deeply rooted in tikanga Māori, Te Toi Ora ki Whāingaroa blends western healthcare with rongoā Māori, including mirimiri (massage) and traditional healing practices. A free health screening clinic at Poihākena Marae is an opportunity for anyone in the community to check on their health and connect with others.
Open to all, Te Toi Ora ki Whāingaroa fosters wellbeing, learning, and connection, creating a space where kaumātua and whānau feel valued, supported, and empowered.