Global studies attest that early engagement with childbirth education (CBE) classes enhances maternal and infant health outcomes. In Aotearoa New Zealand, Māori participation rates in CBE classes are lower than those of their non-Māori counterparts. Current CBE classes are designed and delivered using a predominantly Western medicalised approach that negates Māori birthing knowledge, expertise, and values. However, sporadically, Kaupapa Māori CBE classes are being delivered. This article draws on a wider study that explores the Hapū Wānanga (HW) CBE programme, a by Māori, for Māori pregnancy and parenting initiative.

He rangahau e pā ana ki tētahi rïpoata tawhito i tukuna e Te Whānau-a-Te Ēhutu hai kēreme i te 1994 ki te Karauna. He kēreme tēnei mō te moutere, mō te puia o Whakaari. Ko te take mō tēnei rangahau, he āta tïtiro ki tēnei kēreme me ētahi atu kēreme whakawhiti e pā ana ki Whakaari kia mārama ai ngā take o roto. Mai i ngā tau kua pahure atu ki tēnei tau, ka tïmatahia e ngā hapū o Te Whānau-a-Apanui te whakarite i ngā kēreme kia utua e te Karauna mō ngā hara I mahia e rātou i ngā wā o mua. Ko te hua matua i puta mai i tēnei rangahau, ko te māramatanga ki ētahi mahi hē a te Karauna me te kaha o ngā tïpuna ki te whai tonu i tēnei kaupapa whenua.