Cultural

NGA ORANGA MEKAMEKA (LifeLinks)

WHAINGA ARO MATAWAI (Needs Assessment)

Literally means "the making of a needs assessment". "Aro Matawai" is a new term used within Nga Kura Kaupapa, The Maori Language Schools, and this is the word for assessment.

UMANGA MAHI TAHI (Service Coordination)

The pulling or drawing together into one, within the work area, as in the delivery of a care package across the board of a person’s total needs.

The model or process that LifeLinks generally use for cultural assessments is the Powhiri Model which is used within maoridom.

The Whare Tapa Wha model can also be used on request.

The process is as follows:

Mihi - acknowledging the presence of everyone and to identify the kaupapa or topic of assessment.

Karakia – acknowledging the divine relationship with our Atua (God) and to remember those who have passed on.

Whakapuaki – to open up and to expand and explore the kaupapa (topic) and to identify, clarify and familiarise oneself to change. To gain feedback and allow the korero (feelings to flow).

Whakatangi - to weep is to allow expressions of acceptance and allow whanau to accept and resolve the take (task).

Whakaratarata – to allow an opportunity to evaluate the achievement of a result of the take (topic).

Whakaora - mandate for whanau to heal and also an opportunity to obtain their own mana motuhake (resolutions) in terms of the assessment process.

LifeLinks Kaumatua

For cultural assistance please contact Kawiti Tukuru:

Ph: (03) 365 9593 / 0800 866 877
Fax: (03) 365 5244
Email: tukuruk@lifelinks.co.nz

The LifeLinks Kaumatua is available to assist in culturally appropriate services and/or Needs Assessments for Maori. The Kaumatua can provide links to iwi, hapu etc via well established community organisations and networks. There is no fee for this service.

Other Cultures

LifeLinks recognises other cultures exist and recognises services that may help.

LifeLinks can access culturally appropriate services to assist in the process of Needs Assessment and Service

Coordination Services e.g.: Refugee and Migrant Service, Pacific Island Trust, Deaf Association of New Zealand, Royal New Zealand Foundation of the Blind, Advocacy Services and any other service of choice.