Āwhinatanga nurtures leadership capability grounded in kaupapa Māori values and relational practice. Through connection, reflection, and shared learning, wāhine strengthen their rangatiratanga – and contribute to collective wellbeing through purposeful action.
"We help wāhine build resilience, because it's something that has to be taught, modelled and practised. So often that hasn't happened – it's like wāhine have been taken to the middle of the moana, thrown overboard and told to swim back to shore. But they've never been taught how to swim."
Four pou of wellbeing
Grounded in Te Whare Tapa Whā, wāhine bring together what they learn – moemoeā, matakite, and a renewed sense of direction. The aim is lasting change that continues beyond this kaupapa, into homes, relationships, and generations to come.
Pou 01
Spiritual health
We begin with grounding – reconnecting with identity, purpose, values, and moemoeā. Wāhine explore courage, aspirations, strengths, and the deeper “why” that guides their journey. This pou includes visioning, self-discovery, and gentle wairua practices that help wāhine centre themselves and build inner clarity.
Pou 02
Physical health
This pou focuses on strengthening the body and understanding its needs. We explore healthy kai, sleep, stress, hormones, sexual health, movement, exercise, and recreation. Wāhine develop rhythms that support energy, balance, and long-term wellbeing in everyday life.
Pou 03
Mental + emotional health
We learn to understand thoughts, emotions, and inner narratives. Wāhine build emotional regulation skills, set healthy boundaries, and explore grief, trauma, and adversity in a safe, supportive environment. This pou also includes meditation, reflection, and tools for calming the mind and nurturing resilience.
Pou 04
Social + whānau health
This pou nurtures relationships, connection, and the wellbeing of the wider whānau system. We explore communication, community, whānau flourishing, pūtea health, generosity, koha, and long-term stability such as home ownership. Wāhine also practise kaitiakitanga of self and life-long learning to strengthen not just themselves, but their futures and the futures of their tamariki and mokopuna.
Choose your pathway
Wāhine can join Āwhinatanga in two ways. Both pathways are vital to our kaupapa – each woman bringing her own mana, her own story, and her own light into the collective.
Kākano · Grow your rangatiratanga
A six-month leadership experience – February to July – of group wānanga and one-on-one coaching. Leadership begins with mana awareness, self-awareness, and a commitment to collective wellbeing.
Become a Kākano →Kaiārahi · Workforce pathway
Strengthen capability, cultural responsiveness, and relationship-based practice – including MANA Tuakana Teina Certification – then deliver one-on-one coaching within our ecosystem.
Become a Kaiārahi →