Pēpi Ora is an exciting new initiative being delivered across Te Tau Ihu to support the wellbeing of māmā, pēpi, and whānau during one of life’s most important journeys.

The programme provides holistic support throughout pregnancy, birth, and the postnatal period, helping māmā build confidence, strengthen connections, and access the care they need to thrive. Support is delivered through wānanga, structured hui, one-to-one mentoring, and wraparound care for māmā experiencing anxiety, postnatal challenges, or adjustment to parenthood. 

At the heart of Pēpi Ora is whanaungatanga. The programme creates opportunities for whānau to connect with others, learn new skills, share experiences, and build supportive relationships that continue long after the programme ends. By nurturing strong, healthy connections, we aim to strengthen the wellbeing of both whānau and their pēpi.

Our first Pēpi Ora Wānanga will be held on 30–31 July 2026 at Omaka Marae. If you know a māmā, hapū wahine, or a pāpā raising his pēpi, this is a wonderful opportunity to be part of a supportive and empowering kaupapa.

We currently offer two Pēpi Ora pathways:

• Pēpi Ora Wānanga - for those who are hapū or have a pēpi under 6months.

  2 day wānanga weaving your own wahakura for your pēpi

  Upcoming dates at Omaka Marae (subject to change):

  10am-2:30pm

  30/31st July 2026

  26/27 November 2026

  25/26 February 2027

  We will also hold a wānanga in Whakatū in 2027, dates and venue TBC

• Pēpi Ora Weekly - for all māmā (or pāpā) with tamariki under 5years.

  Weekly group starting Wednesday 5th August 2026, 10am-12pm.

  Enjoy connection with other māmā, through group activities such as walks, coffee, arts & crafts, beach visits, guest speakers.

For more information, or to discuss which option may best suit your whānau, please contact Kowhai at the tari (kowhai@maataawaka.co.nz), otherwise fill out a referral form here and we’ll be in touch.