Māhutonga: A New Dawn for Whānau Ora in Aotearoa
New Whānau Ora Commissioning Agency Launches with 33 Providers Locked in to Deliver Continuity of Care for Whānau
A significant milestone for whānau wellbeing across the motu has been reached with the official launch of Māhutonga, a new Whānau Ora Commissioning Agency delivered by Te Rūnanga o Toa Rangatira, dedicated to empowering whānau through kaupapa Māori solutions, self-determination, and strengthened community networks.
Rooted in the values of manaakitanga, kotahitanga and tino rangatiratanga, Māhutonga has been established to further embed Whānau Ora as a whānau-led approach to wellbeing, focusing on strengths, aspirations, and culturally grounded solutions.
“The name Māhutonga reflects navigation, unity and direction. It speaks to the stars that guide our journeys and the strength of collective leadership,” said Helmut Modlik, Chief Executive of Te Rūnanga o Toa Rangatira. “We are honoured to work with 33 exceptional providers and navigators who have long walked alongside our whānau. Together, we will ensure continuity, trust, and a stronger future for generations to come.”
This launch marks a new era for Whānau Ora — one that builds on the foundations laid by those who have championed the kaupapa for over a decade, while charting a course that remains firmly whānau-led and grounded in te ao Māori.
In a major step forward, Māhutonga also proudly announces that 33 trusted providers and 174 navigators across Region 2 (Te Ūpoko o Te Ika, Heretaunga, Tairāwhiti, Waiariki, Taranaki, Manawatū-Whanaganui) have been confirmed, ensuring a seamless transition and the continuation of high-quality, culturally responsive care for whānau. This is a significant increase in investment of approximately $820k, and an increase in navigators from 161 to 174. This network of experienced partners will support the delivery of Whānau Ora outcomes across the rohe, maintaining strong relationships and deep community connections.
“We want to acknowledge the tremendous effort that providers put into their submissions. The commitment to whānau and the depth of insight shared throughout this process have been outstanding and appreciated” says Jennie Smeaton, Deputy CEO Te Rūnanga o Toa Rangatira, “Throughout this process we’ve prioritised transparency—ensuring a shared understanding of where targeted support is most needed to create meaningful change for whānau.”
Māhutonga is committed to responsive, agile commissioning that reflects the lived realities of whānau, with a focus on equitable outcomes, innovation, and the ability to respond quickly to emerging needs.