The paradigm supports a shift from western/eurocentric dominance by promoting ideas and more effective ways of practising in Aotearoa New Zealand. It preferences Te Ao Māori principles, and ways of understanding the impacts of colonisation. The paradigm helps us to understand the lived experience of whānau and families and enables work in restorative and mana-enhancing ways.

• The paradigm has five core components – Te Ao Māori is valuable knowledge, the significance of history, valuing narratives as cultural identity, Māori concepts of oranga (wellbeing), and principled practice.
• The mana-enhancing paradigm supports and facilitates our understanding of oranga (wellbeing) constructs to address trauma, abuse, risk, protection, safety, growth and healing.
• The mana-enhancing paradigm supports practices that are relational, inclusive, restorative and purposeful for all tamariki/mokopuna and rangatahi.

Related practice standard

Work closely in partnership with others