As holistic approaches to health gain momentum worldwide, one framework has been guiding wellbeing in Aotearoa for decades: Te Whare Tapa Whā. Rooted in mātauranga Māori, this model reminds us that true wellness is more than just physical - it’s about balance in all aspects of life. 

 

What is Te Whare Tapa Whā? 

 

Developed by Māori health advocate Sir Mason Durie in 1982, Te Whare Tapa Whā views health and wellbeing through the metaphor of a wharenui. All four walls need to be balanced and rest on a strong foundation. 

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• Te taha tinana 

• Te taha hinengaro 

• Te taha whānau 

• Te taha wairua 

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Te taha tinana emphasises the importance of caring for the body as a vessel for overall hauora. Physical health cannot be separated from the other dimensions.  

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This pou invites us to draw strength from: 

 🌿 Moving our bodies 
🌿 Balanced nutrition 
🌿 Rest and self-care 

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Regular physical activity not only strengthens the body but also positively impacts mental clarity (taha hinengaro) and fosters social connections (taha whānau). Neglecting physical health can disrupt this balance, affecting all other dimensions. 

 

​Te taha hinengaro recognises the deep connection between thoughts, emotions, and overall wellbeing. In Te Ao Māori, mind and body are inseparable, asserts Sir Mason Durie. 

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This dimension speaks to our ability to: 
🌿 Think clearly & process information 
🌿 Communicate effectively 
🌿 Express and regulate emotions 

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Neglecting this area can impact mental resilience. Activities like journaling, meditation, or waiata can help calm the mind and uplift our kare-ā-roto (feelings). 

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Te taha wairua is central and refers to a person’s ability to have faith, be spiritually aware and understand our inextricable connection with everything around us.  

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This dimension invites us to explore our:

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🌿 Sense of identity 
🌿 Purpose and meaning in life 
🌿 Connection to tīpuna, atua, whenua or personal beliefs 

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When this dimension is neglected, individuals may feel disconnected or lack meaning in their lives. Nurturing wairua through karakia or immersing in nature allows people to feel more grounded, resilient, and connected to their purpose and environment. 

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​Te taha whānau highlights the importance of relationships beyond immediate family to include friends, colleagues, and community networks. Strong social bonds provide support during challenges, shape identity, provide emotional backing, and influence health decisions.  

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This pou invites us to reflect on our: 

 🌿 Ties with close whānau 
🌿 Wider support networks 
🌿 Community engagement 

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​Whānau-centred care models recognise that healing is not just about an individual - it involves uplifting the whole community. Participating in community events or maintaining close ties with extended family or friends strengthens taha whānau. Conversely, isolation or fractured relationships can lead to feelings of insecurity or stress.

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​These four dimensions rest on the foundation of whenua, reflecting our connection with te taiao and the physical spaces that have nurtured us. 

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​When all dimensions are in harmony, individuals thrive; when one is weakened, overall wellbeing can falter. 

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Ki te wātea te hinengaro, me te kaha rere o te wairua, ka tāea ngā mea katoa 

When the mind is free and the spirit is willing, anything is possible 

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🌀 A Model for Everyone 

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While rooted in mātauranga Māori, Te Whare Tapa Whā offers universal lessons about balance and the interconnectedness of all aspects of life. It reminds us that true health goes beyond treating symptoms - it’s about nurturing every aspect of our being: mind, body, wairua, relationships and connection to te taiao.

 

At Atawhai Creative Communications, we embrace Te Whare Tapa Whā not just in our personal wellbeing, but in the way we tell stories and shape narratives that amplify mātauranga Māori for the benefit of all. Through this lens, we continue to shape content that not only informs but also nurtures and empowers our communities.

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