This report explores a range of health and wellbeing models that draw on mātauranga Māori that have been used at individual, collective, and population levels in Aotearoa New Zealand.

It begins by conceptualising health and wellbeing from Māori and Western perspectives, as well as the underlying philosophies that drive different views on wellbeing. It then considers how non-Māori can approach Māori models of wellbeing with care and respect, working reflexively to engage with wellbeing and te ao Māori without stepping into the space of recolonisation. Māori must be key partners in this work.  

The paper introduces models of wellbeing that draw on aspects of mātauranga Māori which, in this context, the authors describe as key concepts and understandings from te ao Māori. Some are fully grounded in te ao Māori, others braid together mātauranga Māori and Western knowledge, and all conceptualise wellbeing in holistic, inclusive ways that are not often prioritised in Western models.