A Holistic Approach to Wellbeing in Aotearoa
In New Zealand, wellbeing is more than just the absence of illness — it’s about living in balance. One of the most recognised frameworks for achieving this balance is Te Whare Tapa Whā, a Māori model of health developed by Sir Mason Durie in 1984.
This model views wellbeing like a wharenui (meeting house), with four walls representing different dimensions of health. Just as a wharenui needs all four walls standing strong to remain stable, our wellbeing relies on balance between these aspects of life.
The Four Walls of Te Whare Tapa Whā
1. Taha Tinana – Physical Wellbeing
Taha tinana is about caring for your physical body — eating nourishing food, getting enough rest, moving regularly, and seeking medical care when needed.
It also includes feeling safe in your environment and having access to the resources you need to live well.
Everyday practice: Go for a daily walk, prepare balanced meals, and keep medical check-ups up to date.
2. Taha Hinengaro – Mental & Emotional Wellbeing
This wall is about the mind — thoughts, feelings, and emotions. Good mental health means being able to express your emotions, manage stress, and think clearly.
In a counselling context, taha hinengaro is supported by therapy, mindfulness, journaling, and building emotional resilience.
Everyday practice: Take 10 minutes a day to check in with how you’re feeling and what you need emotionally.
3. Taha Whānau – Social Wellbeing
Whānau means family, but it also includes friends, colleagues, and community. Social connection gives us a sense of belonging, support, and identity.
Strong taha whānau helps buffer life’s challenges, and investing in relationships can be as important for health as exercise or diet.
Everyday practice: Call a loved one, join a community group, or spend intentional time with people who lift you up.
4. Taha Wairua – Spiritual Wellbeing
Taha wairua is about meaning, purpose, and connection to something greater than yourself. For some, this might be religion or faith; for others, it may be a connection to nature, culture, values, or creativity.
In Māori culture, wairua is considered the most essential dimension — guiding how we see the world and our place in it.
Everyday practice: Spend time in nature, practice gratitude, meditate, or explore your whakapapa (genealogy).
The Foundation – Whenua (Land)
While the model is often described with four walls, it also stands on a foundation: whenua (land, roots, and identity). Our connection to the land shapes who we are and how we live. Caring for whenua and maintaining a sense of place can strengthen all other aspects of health.
Why Te Whare Tapa Whā Matters in Mental Health
In a Western context, mental health is often separated from physical, social, or spiritual health. Te Whare Tapa Whā reminds us they are deeply interconnected.
For counsellors and therapists in New Zealand, this model is a guide for cultural competence — ensuring that therapy addresses the whole person, not just one aspect of their life.
Practical Ways to Use Te Whare Tapa Whā in Your Life
-Self-check: Reflect on each wall. Which feels strong? Which needs attention?
-Set goals: If taha hinengaro feels shaky, you might focus on therapy, journaling, or mindfulness.
-Seek balance: Strengthening one wall often helps the others. For example, improving physical health can boost mental wellbeing.
Final Thoughts
Te Whare Tapa Whā is more than just a health model — it’s a reminder that we thrive when every part of our wellbeing is nurtured. Whether you’re seeking counselling, building resilience, or simply aiming for a more balanced life, this framework offers a culturally grounded path forward.
If you’d like to explore how these principles can support your own journey, I offer online therapy sessions across Auckland and New Zealand, grounded in both clinical expertise and cultural respect.