Tāne connect through wellbeing-focused noho at Ara

_{A Waka-on-Avon session brought participants together on the water}

A new event at Ara Institute of Canterbury has brought together male learners from all walks, study paths and campuses to focus on health and wellbeing.

Held at Te Puna Wānaka, Te Ara Kura a Tāne was a noho (overnight) experience which explored identity, wellbeing, culture and voice with whanaungatanga throughout.

Around 30 ākonga (students) from programmes as diverse as barbering, carpentry, massage and social work took part in the noho over two days.

Te Ara Kura a Tāne included workshops on pepeha, mental health and kapa haka, with shared kai and kōrero, leadership conversations, health and fitness and waka ama on the Avon.

Facilitator and Māori Mental Health & Wellbeing Adviser Tara-Lee Taukiri said the programme was designed to create an inclusive, mana-enhancing space where all tāne could strengthen their sense of identity, belonging and wellbeing.

"The kaupapa is simple. We wanted to create a space to connect, kōrero, challenge yourself, have a laugh, learn and reflect. This quality time also provided a real reminder that no one has to navigate their learner journey alone," Taukiri said.

"We should be able to have conversations about wellbeing and for it to be an everyday part of life, especially for tāne."

The programme was centred around Te Whare Tapa Whā, a Māori model identifying tinana (physical), hinengaro (mental and emotional), wairua (spiritual) and whānau (family) as the cornerstones of health and wellbeing.

Taukiri said the noho was developed with input from a community of practice of tāne kaimahi Māori, helping ensure it reflected the needs and aspirations of participants.

She acknowledged the contribution of Poharama Nopera, Ocean Edwards-Ford and Logan Carroll, whose expertise helped shape the programme.

While grounded in a kaupapa Māori approach, Taukiri said it was intentionally open to all men, regardless of whakapapa or background.

"A lot of people think wellbeing is just about what's happening in your head. But kaupapa Māori models such as Te Whare Tapa Whā remind us it's much bigger than that. It's about looking after all aspects of who we are."

"I see learners from all backgrounds who need support with their mental health and wellbeing. My approach is informed by kaupapa Māori models, but the support is there for everyone."

Ara Associate Director of Māori Success Tate Tiatia said the noho demonstrated the power of creating spaces where learners could connect beyond the classroom.

"When tāne are given the opportunity to step away from the pressures of everyday life, spend time together and have honest conversations, you see confidence grow and connections form.

"What stood out was not just the willingness of our learners to engage, but the genuine support they showed one another. That's something they'll carry with them long after the noho has ended."

A similar noho for wāhine is planned for September.