Lay summary
This is a transformative qualitative study which attempts to define taiohe and whanau experiences with acute mental health issues where drugs/alcohol are implicated. Taiohe are approximately fifty percent of the Maori population. They are our future kaumatua and nurturing them when experiencing acute mental health complications is essential for Maori and the Nation. However, taiohe and whanau are constantly challenged with the western approach of service delivery. Therefore, this study envisions to provide a collective approach by listening to their voices to understand and define a culturally co-ordinated and managed approach in services. I will use an indigenous methodology, kaupapa Maori research to structure assumptions, values, concepts and priorities for taiohe and whanau within a western paradigm. It is an approach that will reframe, restore, return and democratise traditional ways of decision making allowing for indigenous governance. This study will contribute to tino rangatiratanga and ensure Te Tiriti O Waitangi responsiveness.