To kick off Mens Health week June 2023 a new Tane Ora initiative was rolled out in the Hawkes Bay.
Tāne – Tika Tonu is a programme to whakamana i ngā tāne katoa (Rangatahi, Pakeke and Koroua) in Ngāti Kahungunu and the region of Taiwhenua. This programme is designed to address the pressing issue of wellbeing among Tāne and create a supportive environment where they can come together, share their stories, and be empowered.
Zac Makoare of Te Taitimu Trust came up with the idea of Tane – Tika Tonu in `the wake of Cyclone Gabrielle. This event has had lasting impacts for hapori throughout the rohe of Kahungunu. There have been physical devastations on places, homes, marae and buildings, however, of greatest concern is the impacts on people and whānau. There is physical isolation which compounds emotional, mental and psychosocial distress. At present in Ngati Kahungunu, there have been a large number of men struggling with issues of recovery, re-build, the rising costs of living and much more. Of particular alarm is the loss of life through suicide that has been experienced by whānau in the region due to such pressures.
So in collaboration with The Centre for Maori Suicide Prevention Tane – Tika Tonu came to fruition.
On Sunday 11 June 2023 a lunch was held at Pukehou. There were over 20 Tane of all ages in attendance, and also a few Wahine were present to support the Kaupapa. Some media coverage and interviews were captured by Te Karere and our own media support crew.
Click the photo to watch the video
The Korero from the day was incredibly uplifting, inspiring and focused on the well-being of each other, particularly Tāne. The power of Karakia was emphasized, along with the importance of Whakapapa and self-discovery.
The discussion touched on life's challenges, such as relationships, hurt, money, control, kids, bills, and the need for immediate support. Not the “book an appointment” that doesn’t work for our Tāne. They need it then and there, with non-judgmental conversations. We need to show kindness.
It was highlighted that we must ask how we are doing and lift each other up, as Tāne, as we can't go any lower than we have already been. The harmful effects of not addressing mental health issues symbolized as a "suicide canary," which was also discussed.
The gathering of Tāne at this event emphasized the value of connections and the ability to be able to open up without relying on alcohol. It was recognised that with tautoko, we can navigate life's struggles and care for ourselves by reaching out.
Also acknowledged was the important need to support whānau as the frontline and first responders. Also highlighted is creating a safe space where Tāne can share and support each other, recognising that we are the resource and the power lies within each other.
The importance of providing a safe environment for Tāne to share their stories, pain, and challenges was acknowledged.
The conversation delved into the effects of trauma and the need to bridge the gap toward healing. Communication tools and creating footprints for future generations were discussed, along with the importance of making a safe space and incorporating Karakia in both challenging and blessed situations.
Our rangatahi tāne should be included in these discussions, and growth through Wānanga was encouraged. The power of connections (Hono) within our environment was also highlighted.
Korero from Tane
“Speaking out to someone else who actually had my best interests at heart , it changed my whole view of what health and wellbeing looks like.”
“You don’t have to be a professional to give help”
“Looking forward to see where this kaupapa will go for our Tane and more wananga.”
“It’s good to have young and old here today so that we can all share our stories together.”
“This Kaupapa is needed everywhere.”
Kaumatua – Jerry Hapuku
Guest speakers - Ngaro Hape , Robert Whaitiri
On Tuesday 13 June 2023 Over 70 men from across the Ngāti Kahungunu rohe attended an early morning breakfast hosted by Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga.
They gathered in a powerful display of unity and purpose. Their shared goal was to address the challenges faced by tāne within their Rohe and find meaningful solutions. Among the attendees was a young rangatahi who expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to listen and learn, knowing that support was readily available when needed.
An elder Tāne emphasised the vital importance of creating a safe space for Tāne to freely express their emotions and forge meaningful connections with one another. The impact of this gathering was profound, inspiring the participants to plan for future endeavours based on the principles of whanaungatanga and the invaluable lessons learned.
One poignant aspect of the discussions centered around the significance of including the upcoming generations of Tāne in such events. They were reminded that by sitting, listening, and learning alongside esteemed chiefs, they too, could become leaders in their own right.
The event culminated in a breath taking display of strength as the Ngāti Kahungunu Tika Tonu Haka reverberated through the hearts and souls of all present, leaving an indelible mark on each participant, young and old alike.
Korero from Tane
“Simple kōrero where people open up their hearts, it opens up the kōrero. We turn up and support whanau so that we are not supporting whanau at a tangi.”
“Accountability. Solutions start with the mirror. When we look into our self, our healing – we are the example for our whanau. We can be in these spaces but we need to actually show our children. Be the example. Our ancestors are with us
“Our wahine have been leading wananga without Tane. We need to stand up now.”
“We have to challenge the system. We have to be prepared to step outside the system to be true to this Kaupapa.”
“Take the time to say “Pehea e hoa”....follow up with “brother, are you really well”. It belongs to us...he Tāne ora
Kaumatua- Jerry Hapuku
Guest speakers - Dr Rawiri McKree Jansen , Ngaro Hape , Robert Whaitiri ,
Ehara taku toa I te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini
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