Te Whare Piringa: Whānau Voices on Hapūtanga, Support, and Mana

Te Whare Piringa is more than just a place, it’s a living prototype designed by the Hapū Māmā Village to reimagine how support is offered to whānau on the hapūtanga journey. Grounded in trust, whakawhanaungatanga, and care, it’s not a finished product but an evolving process built alongside the people it serves.

This blog brings together testimonies from three whānau; Bailee and Daniel, Tarns and Maemae, and Keita and Lamon. Each sharing their unique experiences of parenting, pregnancy, and the systems they navigated.

Together, these stories highlight how Te Whare Piringa is creating space for whānau to reclaim their mana, strengthen their voices, and find confidence in the most important role of all, raising their tamariki.

Bailee and Daniel speak about the challenges of early parenthood, the importance of a supportive village, and learning to trust their own voices during the birthing journey.

Tarns and Maemae reflect on the struggle to find a midwife, the desire for Māori-led care, and the role of reo and wānanga in raising their tamariki.

Keita and Lamon share how Te Whare Piringa helped them grow in confidence, trust their instincts, and see parenthood as a journey grounded in mātauranga Māori and collective strength.