In the realm of health and wellbeing, the integration of traditional Māori healing practices, known as Rongoā Māori, is helping to enhance modern health solutions. With Māori making up over 17% of Aotearoa’s population, and facing disproportionately higher rates of mental distress and suicide, the need for culturally sensitive and holistic approaches is more critical than ever.
TELUS Health, a leader in innovative health and wellbeing solutions, has been recognised by Global Employee Assistance (EA) Summit 2025 for our dedication to supporting the Māori kaimahi and promoting holistic workplace wellbeing. We take pride in our efforts to honour traditional Māori practices and help address the pressing mental health needs of the community.
The criteria for winning this award were stringent, focusing on the innovation, impact and sustainability of our health solutions that incorporate Rongoā Māori practices. Our approach stood out for its comprehensive integration of these practices. We have established partnerships with Rongoā Māori practitioners and community leaders to help ensure that the solutions we offer help address both physical and mental health issues, and emphasise the importance of a holistic approach to wellbeing.
Why support for the Māori kaimahi requires a unique approach
Unlike conventional medicine, Rongoā Māori encompasses a holistic approach that considers the physical, mental, spiritual and whānau (family) elements of an individual. To reflect these elements, Rongoā Māori addresses the emotional and spiritual roots of wellbeing.
In Aotearoa, the Māori population faces significant health disparities that highlight the need for comprehensive care that acknowledges cultural sensitivities. One of the most pressing issues is the higher prevalence of mental distress among Māori compared to non-Māori.
According to the New Zealand Health Survey of 2022, Māori are over 1.5 times more likely to experience mental distress, with 33% of Māori adults reporting high or very high psychological distress—nearly double that of non-Māori.
These disparities are also cross-generational, with Māori rangatahi (youth) twice as likely to take their own lives compared to their non-Māori peers. This stark difference highlights the systemic challenges faced by Māori.
The higher rates of psychological distress among Māori are not just a matter of individual health but are deeply rooted in historical and social contexts. The ongoing socio-economic inequalities and the erosion of cultural identity have all contributed to these disparities.
This also means a one-size-fits-all approach to healthcare is insufficient. Rongoā Māori practices, which are deeply embedded in Māori culture and worldview, offer a more holistic and culturally resonant way to help address these challenges. By recognising and respecting the cultural and spiritual dimensions of health, it is possible to create more inclusive and effective wellbeing solutions. This approach not only helps improve individual outcomes but also strengthens the community as a whole.
How traditional Rongoā Māori practices are integrated into TELUS Health solutions
TELUS Health has made significant efforts to integrate traditional Rongoā Māori practices and create a seamless, culturally sensitive solution for Māori communities. For example, traditional practices are integrated into our services through direct access to qualified Rongoā Māori practitioners as part of our employee assistance programme (EAP), enabling employees and their immediate families to receive culturally appropriate support that aligns with their values and whakapapa (genealogy and lineage).
Internally, we have a dedicated Rongoā Māori Lead who plays a key role in guiding the integration of Rongoā into our service delivery. This includes supporting our clients, practitioner network, and Care Access Team to ensure that all interactions and pathways uphold mana-enhancing, safe and respectful experiences. This approach reflects our commitment to equity, partnership and the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
"Our solutions emphasise the importance of achieving balance and harmony across various dimensions of life," says Julie Cressey, TELUS Health General Manager, New Zealand. "This holistic approach is rooted in the Māori concept of te taha whānau (family and social wellbeing), te taha tinana (physical body), te taha hinengaro (mental health), and te taha wairua (spiritual wellbeing). For instance, the inclusion of karakia (prayer) and whakawhiti kōrero (support and advice) certifies that the spiritual and mental aspects of health are not overlooked. These practices help individuals connect with their cultural roots and find inner peace, which is essential for overall health and wellbeing."
Our Rongoā Māori service includes:
- Mirimiri and romiromi (bodywork)
- Hapūtanga (pregnancy and parental care)
- Karakia (prayer)
- Whakawhiti kōrero (support and advice)
- Honohono (energy)
- Rongoā rākau (balm, tea, oil)
TELUS Health embraces Rongoā Māori
By integrating these traditional practices, TELUS Health is helping to enhance the holistic wellbeing of Māori individuals. This holistic approach to workplace wellbeing helps employees feel supported and valued, which can lead to improved productivity and a more positive work environment.
The impact of these initiatives is evident in the positive feedback from both Māori communities and the broader population. By acknowledging and respecting the cultural heritage of Rongoā Māori, TELUS Health has created a more welcoming and supportive environment for all its users. This approach not only helps improve health outcomes but also builds trust and fosters a sense of belonging among those who might feel marginalised. The Global Employee Assistance Summit Award serves as a testament to our vision and ability to meet employees where they are in their wellbeing journey.
This commitment to Māori kaimahi and their holistic wellbeing is not just a win for TELUS Health New Zealand, but a win for the entire community, paving the way for a more integrated and compassionate approach to health and workplace wellbeing.