Whakapapa
By the 1860s the onslaught of the Maori Land Wars and the consequential confiscations or raupatu of 1.2 million acres saw the region enter into a new struggle for independence, truth and justice and reclaiming Tainui autonomy and sovereignty.
Following many years of alienation, Tainui collectively set about to reclaim their autonomy and sovereignty.
In 1983 as a result of a survey conducted into the state of the tribe, the Tainui report identified major disparities in employment, health, education, and housing. With respect to health the report stated that 'What is needed are small health clinics, based among Maori communities (preferably on marae) and operated by trained local people. These people can move easily among their community, assess basic health problems and conduct home-based and/or marae-based preventative health programmes' Tainui Report, 1983.
It is on this basis that Tainui Kaumaatua and Kuia resolved to pursue the dream of Princess Te Puea Herangi and reclaim their health and wellness needs.
The Tainui community health development commenced from 1983. In 1991 Raukura Hauora o Tainui became a legal entity and delivered community health promotion programmes, which progressed into primary healthcare, with the first GP clinic located at Waahi Marae. In 1995 Raukura Hauora o Tainui ki Taamaki was established.
The ethos of the organisation's aspirations is its acceptance and appreciation of Maori culture, social structures and rituals of encounter. These continue to be the basis of planning, development and implementation of all healthcare programs offered by the organisation.
Nga Moemoea O Te Puea
Kia tu pakari ngaa uri whakaheke
Kia ora ai te Whaanau
Kia Mau ki te Reo Maaori
Akonga Nga Mokopuna kia Maia
Awhina te Whaanau kia Ora te Iwi
The future generations shall stand strong for the survival of their families,
they will be well versed, and will holdfast to Te Reo Maori
Teach the generations that follow them to be brave
They'll take care of their families which in turn will care for the tribe