Published May 2019

Family violence disproportionately affects Māori, with Māori being more than twice as likely to experience it than other New Zealanders. Over the last 20 years there has been a raft of literature, reports and programmes that have recommended a broadened perspective of family violence and demonstrated the necessity for, and efficacy of, kaupapa Māori, whānau-centred and strengths-based approaches to working with the complex issues of family and intimate-partner violence. Investment in these approaches can fill a significant gap in both the range and positioning of services available to whānau.2. Te Puni Kōkiri has contracted four well-respected, long-standing, experienced partner providers – Ōtautahi Co-Lab (Christchurch), Waikato Coalition, Kōkiri Marae (Lower Hutt), and Ōrongomai marae (Upper Hutt) as part of an initial tranche of investment. The intention was to co-design1 and test whānau-centred, strengths-based approaches or prototypes – to enable localised solutions and continuous improvement before wider implementation and/or roll out. The overarching outcome Te Puni Kōkiri set for the four provider rōpū prototypes is to restore and establish healthy, safe, and functional whānau relationships.3. Te Puni Kōkiri has engaged Hikitia and Associates to undertake a formative evaluation of the co-design and piloting process. The evaluation approach uses a mix of methods underpinned by kaupapa Māori and culturally responsive practice.4. This report reflects on the first 12 months of initial engagement and co-design and provides a snapshot of what has occurred during the phases of testing. The primary focus has been to: document the approaches as they stand to date, as well as articulate learnings associated with their development; highlight any emerging outcomes; and offer considerations for possible future implementation. Evaluation activities have included a scan of relevant literature, review of relevant programme documentation, ongoing engagement (e.g., through hui, interviews, telephone conversations) with Te Puni Kōkiri representatives, the four providers and a limited number of whānau.21Collaboratively developing concepts and testing them [t]. (Executive summary). Record #7148