Nutrition and Physical Activity

Kura Tangata represents the health and well-being of our communities, highlighting that our people are our most cherished taonga. Nutrition and physical activity are deeply intertwined with our cultural values and practices; for whānau, hapū, iwi, and hapori, they extend beyond the basics of diet and exercise. Our physical health is about our vital connection to whenua (both natural and built environments around us), the mātauranga of whenua and our relationship to it within our everyday life – oranga whenua, oranga tangata.

Hāpai is committed to addressing inequitable health outcomes and countering the influence of the fast-food industry in our communities. Our approach focuses on reconnecting whānau with mātauranga Māori and engaging in meaningful ways to emphasise sustainability and tino rangatiratanga.

Nutrition and physical activity offer opportunities to connect with whenua, exercise kai sovereignty, and honour traditions that intrinsically promote health. This connection might include activities like kapa haka, waka ama, or engaging with the taiao; nutrition also provides an opportunity to embrace karakia, share meals, and cultivate māra kai.