- by Waikura McGregor, Hei Whakapiki Mauri Whānau Ora Navigator
Ko Tahu, Ko Au
Ko Waitaha Ko Au
Ko Mamoe Ko Au
Ko Kati Wheke Ko Au
Te Poho o Tamatea toku Mauka,
Whakaraupo te Moana,
No Te Rapaki o Te Rakiwhakaputa o Matou whanau,
Aoraki Matatu!
In December 2017, we welcomed Maurice (Mau) Rehu into our Hei Whakapiki Mauri whānau after he sustained a brain injury.
Before his stroke, Mau spent many years at sea in the Merchant Navy, navigating the seas of the world – much like Kupe the Māori navigator. However with Mau’s vison now impaired as a result of his brain injury, he is navigating his life in Te Ao Pouri-Te Ao Wairua, the spiritual world.
In my role as Navigator, I helped Mau and his whānau navigate the many systems and processes of the Canterbury District Health Board (CDHB) and the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC). I have also been able to help implement and create new pathways in the Papa Kaika.
Mau is making such a big difference in the lives of others, leading the way for Māori needing respite in the rest-home. He has also been instrumental in developing a working relationship with the rest-home incorporating tikanga Māori.
At Hei Whakapiki Mauri, we are also excited to congratulate Mau and his tamāhine on the new arrival of his first mokopuna, Pria. Ātaahua baby girl!
Mau first met his moko after attending this year’s Anzac Day Dawn Service at Rapaki. It was a very special moment for the whole whānau – and a very proud moment for Mau.
Mau will soon be off on another adventure, crossing the seas of the Cook Strait to spend more quality time with his much-loved Pria and whānau.
As a Navigator, I am very proud to have been part of Mau’s journey so far.
I recently took some photos of Mau at a kitchen tēpu hui held at Ruth and Gary’s house, where we discussed how Mau's plan would progress moving forward (over some of Ruth’s yummy home-baked scones!).
Mau and his much-loved mokopuna, Pria.
About Whānau Ora Navigation
Hei Whakapiki Mauri Whānau Ora Navigator Waikura works kanohi ki te kanohi with whānau in Waitaha who have a Māori family member with a disability.
A Navigator's role is to help whānau find pathways to achieve their goals and aspirations. Navigation is also about supporting whānau to find their voice and advocate for themselves.