Published on 1st of April, 2026
Mana Ake has marked eight years of supporting tamariki in Years 1–8 with their mental health and wellbeing in primary schools.
Established in 2018 following the Canterbury and Kaikōura earthquakes, Mana Ake began as part of a Government commitment to support tamariki and has since been rolled out across regions of Aotearoa.
In Canterbury, CMM is one of 13 NGO providers delivering Mana Ake. Together, providers have supported more than 13,600 tamariki in 223 schools over the past five years.
Mana Ake supports schools, families and whānau when tamariki are experiencing challenges that affect wellbeing—such as managing emotions, building friendship skills, strengthening self-esteem, and coping with grief and change.
To mark this milestone, Mana Ake providers released a special publication sharing stories and feedback from tamariki, parents, whānau and schools who have been impacted by the programme.
One nine-year-old boy shared, “The anxiety is not me and I can choose not to listen to it. It does not control my brain.”
Parents are noticing meaningful changes after their tamariki take part. “We’re noticing better connection and less conflict,” shared one mother.
“Both our boys are talking more with us now and are initiating more conversations too. I had no idea about emotions and the impact mine could have on the kids. I’ve learnt heaps and feel really excited about being a mum again.”
CMM is delighted that Government funding will continue for the Mana Ake programme, helping ensure this support remains available for tamariki, schools and whānau.
Click here to read the Mana Ake 2026 publication
