NZ Conference 2025: He ara toiora: The History of Māori Development in Mental Health -from exclusion to leadership

In this episode, Jason Haitana and Kaumatua Ronald Baker explore the historical and contemporary challenges faced by the Māori community in accessing mental health services. They discuss the impact of historical events, such as wars and legislative changes, on Māori well-being and highlight the ongoing struggle for adequate funding and resources. The conversation also touches on the importance of cultural practices and the revitalization of te reo Māori in strengthening community resilience. The hosts emphasise the need for investment in future generations to ensure a healthier, more prosperous future for Māori.

Jason Haitana belongs to the peoples of Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Whanganui and Ngāti Maru Wharanui. He is employed as a Principal Advisor Lived Experience with Te Whatu Ora. He currently sits as a community member with the Colleges Kaunihera. 

Kaumatua Ronald Baker (Ngāti Porou, Te Aitanga a Hauiti, Ngāi Tāmanuhiri, Te Whānau o Rongomaiwahine) is a respected Māori mental health leader with nearly 40 years of service. Born in Hastings and raised in Tāmaki, he pioneered culturally grounded mental health care, establishing New Zealand’s first Māori mental health unit and later the marae‑based Manawanui Māori Mental Health Unit. His work spans clinical leadership, cultural training, and international Indigenous research, recognised through prestigious fellowships. Ronald currently serves as Kaumātua for Te Rau Ora’s Centre of Māori Suicide Prevention and Kaumātua for the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists, continuing to influence Māori mental health through cultural integrity, advocacy, and mentoring. 

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This podcast is provided to you for information purposes only and to provide a broad public understanding of various mental health topics.  The podcast may represent the views of the author and not necessarily the views of The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists ('RANZCP'). The podcast is not to be relied upon as medical advice, or as a substitute for medical advice, does not establish a doctor-patient relationship and should not be a substitute for individual clinical judgement.  By accessing The RANZCP's podcasts you also agree to the full terms and conditions of the RANZCP's Website. Expert mental health information and finding a psychiatrist in Australia or New Zealand is available on the RANZCP’s Your Health In Mind Website.