Whakamomori - A kaupapa grounded in mātauranga and manaaki
There is a an important kaupapa unfolding within Ora Toa Mauriora – one held with care, intention, and deep respect for the lived realities of whānau.
Clinical psychologists Dr. Bailey Rose and Dr. Carrie Clifford are facilitating a community initiative to better understand whakamomori from the perspective of Ngāti Toa Rangatira. With support from Te Rau Ora and ethics approval from Te Herenga Waka Victoria University, their mahi brings together clinical rigour and cultural integrity.
The team is seeking to hear from Ngāti Toa Rangatira iwi members with mātauranga relating to whakamomori, such as pūrākau, as well as whānau who have been bereaved by suicide.
As Māori mental health kaimahi working for mana whenua, we want to ensure that when responding to mental distress, and specifically whakamomori, that we do so in a way that upholds mātauranga-a-iwi and tikanga. Through the bringing together of mātauranga and lived experience kōrero, the team hopes that this kaupapa will support the iwi and community in better responding to whakamomori.
What emerges will be returned to the community, through resources and educational wānanga with iwi and community members as well as kaimahi of Te Rūnanga o Toa Rangatira. While contributing to wider knowledge, the kaupapa remains grounded in the specific context of Ngāti Toa Rangatira.
The team acknowledged that responses to whakamomori can often come from a place of fear. They hope that this kaupapa supports moving beyond one-off responses, towards a response led with care and grounded within tikanga.
For those who feel able, there is an open invitation to be part of this kaupapa.
Bailey and Carrie are seeking to connect with kaumātua, iwi members, and whānau bereaved by suicide, who are willing to share their perspectives and experiences.
Every kōrero has the potential to support an improved iwi and community response to whakamomori.
Pūtea is available for transport costs, and koha is available for all kaikōrero involved in the kaupapa. Contributions will be held with the utmost care.
To learn more or to kōrero with the research team:
Bailey Rose (Ngāti Maniapoto) – bailey.rose@oratoa.co.nz
Carrie Clifford (Waitaha, Kāti Māmoe, Kāi Tahu) – carrie.clifford@oratoa.co.nz
If this story has brought about any distress, please reach out for support:
Need to Talk? Call or text 1737
Healthline – 0800 611 116
Depression Helpline – 0800 111 757 or text 4202