An example of Practice Notes from past issues of HEB are shown below.
Example #1, from HEB Volume 27, Issue 4 (August 2000)
Also see Example 2,
Example 3, Example 4, or go back to Practice Notes.
Programme:
Hapaia Te Ora (to advance or uplift health)
Sponsor:
Tairawhiti Public Health Unit
Contact:
Peter Boyd or Nicky Hart
Health Promotion Team, Tairawhiti Public Health Unit
PO Box 119
Gisborne, New Zealand
Phone: (64) (6) 867-9119
Fax (64) (6) 867-8414
email: Boyd@thl.co.nz or NickyH@thl.co.nz
Objective
To use ancient and modern ocean sports to promote healthy lifestyles
among people in Tairawhiti (on the east coast of the North Island, New Zealand).
Assessment of Need
The adoption of healthy lifestyles in a national priority. Over 44% of the population
of Tairawhiti identify as Maori (indigenous people). The local public health unit,
together with tangata whenua (local indigenous people) and the wider community,
through a process of community discussion, identified the value of building on a
holistic indigenous model of wellbeing to promote healthy lifestyles. The model
uses Te Moana (The Ocean) and recently revived traditional ocean activities.
Strategy
The programme is based on a strong philosophy of local Maori tradition that
teaches that whenever spiritual, mental or physical ill-health occurs, Te
Moananui-a-Kiwa (the Pacific Ocean) provides healing. The programme uses
a holistic model of wellbeing that includes whanau (families), language,
history, physical activity, nutrition, and tikanga (cultural practices).
The programme components are delivered through wananga (houses of learning)
where participants have the opportunity to paddle waka ama (outriggers), surf,
learn about traditional kai (food) and the history of ocean activity in the
Pacific. A "trust" (not-for-profit organisation) was established with
representation from the local people, the public health unit, local government
and other community groups. The programme was successfully trialed in 1996/1997.
Evaluation Approach
A variety of methods are being used including case studies, key informant interviews,
written and oral evaluations, and outcome measures such as smoking status and levels of fitness.
Implications for the Practitioner
This programme demonstrates the importance of delivering holistic health promotion programmes
in the appropriate cultural context. It also demonstrates the value of building effective
partnerships between the community and health agencies.
Acknowledgements
The Tohunga Whakairo (experts in Maori History, Arts and Geneology),
Pine Taiapa, John Taiapa and Rua Kaika who have passed on. Matahi and Raipoia
Brightwell for assisting in the development of the water academy. Api Mahuika
for support and naming Hapaia Te Ora.
