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March 2026

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This past Saturday, 21 March 2026, whānau gathered at Rangiwaho Marae to celebrate the graduation of participants from the Huarahi Pai programme, marking the end of an eight-week journey of healing, growth, and reconnection.

The day was an emotional occasion, with strong whānau support present throughout. Moments of reflection, pride, and aroha were shared as participants stood alongside their loved ones, highlighting the importance of collective support in each individual journey.

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Huarahi Pai is a marae-based rehabilitation wānanga grounded in te ao Māori, designed to support individuals and their whānau who are impacted by addiction. Delivered over an intensive eight-week period, the programme creates a safe, culturally-led environment where participants can reconnect with their whakapapa, tikanga, and identity.

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Unlike many traditional approaches, Huarahi Pai takes a whānau-centred model — recognising that healing is not just for the individual, but for the whole whānau. Participants and their families are supported together through wānanga, shared experiences, and a return to the marae as a place of healing and restoration.

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Ngāti Porou Oranga have supported the last 17 intakes of Huarahi Pai, continuing to deliver wānanga grounded in traditional Māori practices. Through this kaupapa, participants are supported to rebuild their lives with a strong cultural foundation and renewed sense of purpose.

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The Huarahi Pai Graduation stands as a powerful reflection of transformation, resilience, and the strength of whānau walking alongside one another on the journey to wellbeing.

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