Mahi a Atua
– Te Kūwatawata

Committed to developing indigenous systems
for positive community outcomes

The National Hauora Coalition (NHC) are committed to improving health outcomes for whānau Māori. We have partnered with Te Hononga o Tāmaki Hoturoa, Papakura Marae, Ruapōtaka Marae, Taumarunui Community Kōkiri Trust, Te Whare Hauora o Raungaiti to implement Te Kūwatawata, a programme based on Mahi a Atua principles, designed by Mark and Dr Diana Kopua. Mahi a Atua was created as a response to the disproportionate rates of mental health issues suffered by whānau Māori.

Mahi a Atua is a therapeutic intervention which relies on Mātauranga Māori principals. Practitioners (Mataora) use a holistic approach incorporating Māori traditions, pūrākau and wānanga to enable whānau to reconnect with their pre-colonised selves.

Mahi a Atua is intended to be a first point of contact for whaiora Māori and whānau who are experiencing mild to moderate distress in their wellbeing. This programme will support whaiora and their whānau to be enabled to choose culturally relevant practices to address their mental health, addictions and distress.

The National Hauora Coalition is the coordinating agency working in partnership with Te Kurahuna for Mahi a Atua in Tāmaki Makaurau, Counties Manukau, and the greater Waikato.

Mahi a Atua fact file

What is Mahi a Atua

We are a free service across Tāmaki Makaurau & Waikato. We offer an indigenous approach to whānau living in distress. Mahi a Atua draws from Te Ao Māori practice, pūrākau (your story) and our Atua to inform your wellness.