Naturopathy has the potential to be uniquely placed to support hauora Māori. Its philosophies align with aspects of Te Ao Māori, a holistic worldview that values mauri (life force), whānau (family), whakapapa (lineage), and whenua (land) as integral to the wellbeing of individuals and communities. Given these shared values, naturopaths could play a role in supporting hauora Māori in Aotearoa New Zealand. Yet, the intersections of indigeneity, colonisation, and systemic oppression continue to shape how Māori engage with healthcare, and naturopathy does not sit outside the system where barriers can influence Māori experiences of care. Patrice shares her postgraduate journey, where she explores the tensions and potential opportunities for naturopathy to contribute to hauora Māori. 

BIO:

Patrice is a qualified Naturopath and Medical Herbalist with over 8 years experience, and has been teaching naturopathy at a tertiary level for 7 years. She is passionate about Māori health and how naturopathy can contribute to improved health outcomes for Māori. In 2024 Patrice began her post-graduate journey, completing a Postgraduate Diploma of Health Science specialising in Māori Health. She is now beginning her journey in research, undertaking a Master of Philosophy using a qualitative kaupapa Māori methodology to explore how Māori clients experience cultural safety within naturopathic care.