Te Matatūhua is an inspiring kaupapa (project) that emerged from a collaboration between the Ministry of Social Development’s Social Action Team, Manawaora (The Centre for Health), Tauranga City Council, and Tauranga Living Without Violence. Its core mission was to explore and identify conditions that empower men to overcome violence and contribute positively to their whānau and communities.
At the heart of Te Matatūhua were pūrakau wānanga—powerful storytelling sessions—that allowed men to safely share their lived experiences of trauma, resilience, and transformation within a culturally affirming and supportive space. Through these intimate narratives, participants not only highlighted the significant barriers of historical trauma and institutional biases but also identified key environmental conditions vital for their healing journeys. These included the profound influence of Māori healing practices, the creation of spaces for vulnerability and courage, sustained community support, collective healing, and nurturing connections with the natural world.
The project also translated these personal insights into actionable strategies, emphasising the importance of flexibility, cultural inclusivity, and compassion in community-led initiatives. By shifting the narrative from labelling men as 'perpetrators' towards recognising them as individuals on paths to healing, Te Matatūhua advocated a transformative approach to violence prevention—one rooted deeply in aroha (love) and mutual respect.
Te Matatūhua ultimately serves as a powerful blueprint for community and systemic change, guiding how we can collectively create environments that nurture growth, foster wellbeing, and build a safer, more compassionate society for future generations.
