For many Māori, it is the presence of their kin that transforms a dwelling into a home. However, when that dwelling needs repairs, it can compromise health and wellbeing and be a barrier to homemaking. Two Kaupapa Māori qualitative studies in Hawke’s Bay interviewed 24 whānau members living in 18 whānau-owned houses about the impact of government-funded critical house repairs. Thematic analysis highlighted that critical repairs were primarily needed as a result of financial hardship. Most participants were positive about the repair work done by Māori tradespeople.