Investing in the future of our
tamariki is vital to advancing
Māori wellbeing. More than thirty per cent of all Māori in Auckland are under the age of 15 years.
Whānau is the smallest unit of Māori society and the wellbeing of tamariki is intricately linked to whānau wellbeing.
Research has shown that early experiences provide the foundation for all future learning, behaviour and health. Read more on the
Centre on the Developing Child website.
This aligns with the Whare Tapa Whā model that recognises four dimensions of Māori health and wellbeing - physical, spiritual, mental, and whānau. Read more on the
Ministry of Health website
Early learning experiences are essential to future growth.
Whānau encompasses the extended family, many of whom are collectively and actively involved in raising tamariki. Some are being raised by two parents, some by their grandparents and others by single parents.
The
Markers of Flourishing Whānau framework (PDF 1.16MB) identifies six significant domains of wellbeing for tamariki and whānau.
Many of these domains such as wealth, standard of living and connectedness are addressed through other Auckland Plan outcomes. Still, all efforts should be holistic and consider the needs of tamariki in the context of their whānau.
How this can be done
Efforts to support tamariki can focus on:
- supporting sustainable funding of whānau and
kaupapa-based programmes to strengthen culturally responsive institutions
- meeting the specific needs of vulnerable tamariki and whānau and addressing equity disparities such as substandard housing, homelessness and low household incomes
- increasing levels of Māori trust in public institutions that impact tamariki and whānau Māori
- increasing equitable outcomes for whānau,
hapū,
iwi and Māori communities, with particular focus on investing in community development projects
- enabling whanau Māori to experience relevant and welcoming public facilities and services
- supporting Māori-led services where appropriate.
