Māori health is a holistic concept that encompasses the physical, mental, spiritual, and social dimensions of well-being. It is rooted in the cultural beliefs and practices of the indigenous people of Aotearoa New Zealand and has been shaped by their history and experiences. One of the key frameworks used to understand Māori health is Te Whare Tapa Wha, which translates to “the four-sided house.”

Te Whare Tapa Wha was developed by Professor Sir Mason Durie, a prominent Māori health advocate and academic. The model depicts the four dimensions of health as the four walls of a house, with the roof representing the holistic nature of health. Each wall is interconnected and necessary for the stability of the whole structure.

Physical Dimension (Taha tinana)

The physical dimension of health is represented by one of the walls of Te Whare Tapa Wha. It encompasses the body and its functions, as well as the physical environment in which a person lives. This includes access to clean water and air, nutritious food, safe housing, and adequate healthcare. Physical health is important for maintaining a strong immune system, preventing illness, and ensuring that people can engage in the activities they enjoy.

Mental Dimension (Taha hinengaro)

The mental dimension of health is another wall of Te Whare Tapa Wha. It encompasses a person’s thoughts, emotions, and feelings. Mental health is influenced by many factors, including genetics, childhood experiences, and social support. It can be affected by stress, trauma, and other life events. Mental health is important for maintaining emotional well-being, coping with stress, and developing resilience.

Spiritual Dimension (Taha wairua)

The spiritual dimension of health is represented by a third wall of Te Whare Tapa Wha. It encompasses a person’s beliefs, values, and connection to the world around them. Spiritual health is not limited to religious beliefs, but also includes a sense of purpose, connection to nature, and connection to community. Spiritual health is important for providing meaning and purpose in life, promoting a sense of belonging, and fostering resilience.

Social Dimension (Taha whanau)

The social dimension of health is the fourth wall of Te Whare Tapa Wha. It encompasses a person’s relationships with others, as well as their access to resources and opportunities. Social health is influenced by many factors, including family and community support, education, income, and access to healthcare. Social health is important for promoting a sense of belonging and connectedness, as well as providing access to resources and support.

The Holistic Nature of Health

The roof of Te Whare Tapa Wha represents the holistic nature of health. It recognizes that all four dimensions of health are interconnected and necessary for overall well-being. If one dimension is weakened or neglected, it can affect the stability of the whole structure.

Te Whare Tapa Wha has become a widely recognized framework for understanding Māori health and promoting a holistic approach to healthcare. It is used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and community leaders to develop programs and policies that address the needs of Māori communities. The model has also been adapted for use in other cultural contexts, highlighting its universal applicability.

However, Te Whare Tapa Wha is not without its criticisms. Some have argued that it is too simplistic and does not fully capture the complexities of Māori health. Others have raised concerns about the model being used inappropriately or without proper understanding of Māori cultural values and practices. It is important to recognize that Te Whare Tapa Wha is not a prescriptive model, but rather a framework for understanding and promoting holistic health.

In conclusion, Te Whare Tapa Wha is an important framework for understanding the four dimensions of Māori health. It recognizes the interconnectedness of physical, mental, spiritual, and social health and highlights the importance of addressing all four aspects.

To learn more or to book, click here or call our friendly reception team on 1800 327 477  (AU)  / 0800 327 477 (NZ).