Journal of Indigenous Social Development, 2023, 12(1): 3 - 27

This paper showcases the kaupapa (philosophy) and practices of a Māta Waka (pan-tribal), community-based Kaupapa Māori service provider in the nation-state currently known as
New Zealand. Te Hou Ora Whānau Services aims to provide services that support and empower tamariki (children), rangatahi (youth), and whānau (extended families) from
diverse backgrounds and experiential realities to fulfil their potential within the context of their cultural heritage and their communities. The purpose of this study was to explore the
philosophy and values underpinning the everyday practices and experiences of eleven kaimahi (practitioners) who work for the organisation. Analyses of the data identified five
overarching pou, or foundational supports that underlie kaimahi ways of being, knowing, relating, and doing, together with seven ‘takepū,’ or preferred ways of engaging with
others. Findings of the study provide an important window into the holistic, relational kaupapa of this Māta Waka organisation and its kaimahi: a set of commitments and actions
that, as the findings demonstrate, are fundamentally a practice of aroha (love). While some of the elements are specific to the New Zealand context, the pou and takepū offer guidance
relevant to programs globally seeking to successfully and creatively respond to the priorities, aspirations, and moemoeā/dreams of Indigenous children, young people, their families, and communities. (Authors' abstract). Record #8721