An exploration of wellbeing in Hapū Wānanga through a Te Wheke framework analysis

Abstract

Before colonisation, Māori had comprehensive knowledge and practices around pregnancy and childbirth. With colonisation, traditional maternity knowledge and practices were replaced by western medical practices. In more recent times, antenatal education classes have played an essential role in providing information on pregnancy, birth and caring for newborns. Research reports that Māori are less likely to attend antenatal programmes and have suggested that culturally responsive programmes may encourage better engagement by Māori. Hapū Wānanga is a kaupapa Māori antenatal education programme. No previous research has explored how whānau experience wellbeing through Hapū Wānanga. This research explores how participants experience wellbeing within the Kia Wana Lakes Baby Service Hapū Wānanga. Three participants, including one couple, and three facilitators were interviewed. Transcripts were analysed through a framework analysis using the Te Wheke model (Pere, 1997), a comprehensive Māori model of health. Findings showed that Hapū Wānanga caters to Māori holistic views of wellbeing, as demonstrated through the Te Wheke Model (Pere, 1997). All participants reported negative experiences with mainstream antenatal services; however, whānau enjoyed their experience at Hapū Wānanga. The two dimensions that influenced participants most were whānaungatanga (kinship ties) and hā ā koro mā ā kuia mā (cultural heritage). Although whānau were empowered by their experience at Hapū Wānanga, they wanted to learn more about parenting and postpartum, mental health. Overall, my findings highlighted that culturally adapted programmes that cater to holistic models of wellbeing could engage Māori service users in an enjoyable and empowering way. If healthcare providers are to be successful in improving indigenous peoples' wellbeing, they need to prioritise culturally adapted programmes based on holistic models of wellbeing.