Working with Māori

Kairaranga ā-whānau

Kairaranga ā-whānau is a specialist Māori role. The literal meaning of the term is: a person who is a weaver of family connections.

Seeking solutions with whānau and families

We consider a family/whānau agreement when we have concerns for the oranga of te tamaiti or rangatahi but there are positive safety factors within the whānau or family.

Advocacy

Advocacy for parents and whānau or family

We encourage parents and whānau or family to access independent advocacy when we’re involved with them, recognising their right to fully participate at all stages of our involvement, helping reduce disparities and increasing equity for parents and whānau.

Care

Housing support for whānau or family

Secure and stable housing helps whānau and families care for their tamariki and rangatahi and support oranga. We advocate for them and provide information about the Fast Track process when tamariki and rangatahi are in the custody of the chief executive.

Care

Supporting whānau connections

We need to support tamariki to establish, maintain and strengthen safe connections with their whānau or family (including siblings), hapū, iwi, marae and family group, and anyone else they or their whānau or family identify as important.

Adoption

Involving whānau or family in the adoption decision

We should make every effort to involve the expectant parents’ whānau or family when adoption is being considered.

Adoption

Selecting an adoptive whānau or family from profiles

Once expectant parents have settled on a plan to place te tamaiti for adoption, we explore their preferences and criteria for an adoptive whānau or family and provide profiles for them to consider, which meet their criteria.

Assessment and planning

Responding to whānau or family and rangatahi about sexual activity

At times, rangatahi may make decisions or engage in activity that could impact their mana and oranga (wellbeing). This can include engaging in sexual activity with others.

Assessment and planning

Protect and support the development of tamariki and rangatahi within healthy whānau and families

We aim to build safety through relational, inclusive and restorative practice with whānau and families, and developing a plan that supports oranga and activates resources to keep tamariki and rangatahi safe.

Care

Maintaining whānau or family relationships when te tamaiti or rangatahi is living away from home

We establish, maintain and strengthen relationships between tamariki, rangatahi and their family, whānau, hapū and iwi when they are living away from home. For court-directed contact, we provide robust information to guide decision-making.