Published on 14th of September, 2025
CMM’s Whare Tiaki in Papanui is a supported living home for kaumātua Māori. Tikanga shapes the way the whare operates, creating a culturally-grounded, holistic model of care. This approach is in contrast to the broader experience of many Māori in Aotearoa, who often face systemic barriers to health, equity and financial security.
Māori reach older age with higher rates of preventable illness, experience lower-quality care, and are more likely to face discrimination in health settings. At retirement, Māori households earn, on average, 17% less disposable income than Pākehā, and only 31% of Māori own their own homes.
Whare Tiaki Manager, Angeline Harema-Hughes, says that awareness of the challenges kaumātua can face shapes the programmes offered at Whare Tiaki. “We ask ourselves, ‘Does this uphold the mana of our kaumātua? Are we respecting their mana motuhake (autonomy) and wairua (spirit)? Are we supporting whānau and whakapapa to thrive?’”
Values like manaakitanga guide the whare’s everyday life, ensuring a warm and welcoming space and upholding the mana of those who frequent the whare. Tino rangatiratanga empowers kaumātua to make their own decisions and maintain autonomy.
Whanaungatanga brings whānau into daily life, fosters strong relationships and a sense of belonging. It connects people through shared experiences, whakapapa and mutual support. Wairuatanga is supported through karakia, waiata, and connection to tangi, marae and a range of kaumātua events in the community. Lastly, arohatanga reminds kaimahi to serve with patience, empathy and humility.
At Whare Tiaki, kaumātua are not just cared for, they are honoured. “Kaumātua are the carriers of knowledge, wisdom and whakapapa. They connect us to our history and uphold tikanga. Honouring them shows respect for their contributions and ensures their mana is upheld as valued leaders in whānau and community life,” Angeline says.
