Lay summary
Use of and preference for rongoā Māori and mātauranga-based health practices during maternity is increasing, yet resourcing for these practices remains limited, delivery is inconsistent, and therefore hapū māmā have limited/variable access to traditional Māori hapūtanga practices. Manaakitanga of hapū māmā and pēpī is paramount to ensuring flourishing tamariki mokopuna. However, predominant reliance of Western medicine-based systems has resulted in ongoing inequities and unmet wellbeing needs of māmā, pēpī and whānau. Our long-term project aims to enhance Māori maternal and pēpī holistic health by providing comprehensive access to rongoā Māori and traditional Māori maternal practices throughout maternity. This activation grant will complete (1) a scoping review of rongoā during maternity care (2) form an expert Māori research team (3 - 5) plan and design the larger project – including a comprehensive rongoā programme of service delivery; and draft and submit a project grant application in 2025.