Kelly Feng, the National Director and the team have been nominated as the community heroes by the New Zealand government for its contribution during the pandemic toward the Asian community. Thank you for the acknowledgement. "The team of staff and volunteers at Asian Families Services (AFS) continues to provide counselling support and advice to diverse communities over the summer. During the lockdown, its services experienced a spike in demand on its Asian Helpline number, with many callers needing psychological, medical and informational support. Many clients are vulnerable, non-English...

This karakia can be used for most occasions and ceremonies. It is a hybrid of ancient tradition with the inclusion of two health concepts, the 5 Ways to Wellbeing and Te Whare Tapa Whā. The karakia was written by the Māori Development Specialist to incorporate a Māori World View on the 5 Ways to Wellbeing in the form of a karakia (prayer). During this time was the Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW) which incorporated Sir Mason Durie’s Hauora Model, Te Whare Tapa Wha hence it’s inclusion also in this karakia. This karakia is a perfect reminder to be conscious about self-care, to embrace...

Ned Cook joined the Mapu Maia Wellington team and the minimising gambling harm sector in 2015. He brought with him a wealth of knowledge and experience of working in the addictions field for over two decades. Ned was a man of deep conviction who ought to be highly honoured. He walked through this life with a strong faith, a gentle heart, and a pioneering spirit. In the addiction field he was steadfast and true. He was a pioneering member of DRUA – a voluntary national Pasifika addiction network and he served on the Pacific Advisory Group (as well as former Chair) to the former Alcohol...

Last month Te Kākano hosted a webinar as part of the DAPAANZ Addictions Practice 2020 online series. Nari Faiers (Te Kākano) and Tamati Patuwai (Mad Ave Community Trust) talked about TAO; an example of Rangatahi development through mātauranga and Kaupapa Māori. Our youth are our future and to enable them to reach their potential and to analyse a world that is rapidly changing TAO was developed. A 12 week programme that delves deeply into the practice of self-mastering and critical reflection. This mana enhancing programme is a positive pathway that has been co-designed by whanau and rangatahi...