Te Wiki o te Reo Māori — Kaimahi stories: Britney

To me, incorporating Te Ao Māori practices into workplace settings demonstrates Tikanga and manaakitanga by understanding cultural values. As I explain below, some meaningful ways to honour these values are using different coloured pillowcases and sheets, recognising the tapu (sacredness) of the head, and asking clients if they would like to keep their IUDs/implants to honour their tapu nature.

In Māori culture, the head is held in high regard as tapu, signifying its special sacredness. This principle is crucial to uphold when engaging with clients, as it creates a respectful environment. Utilising coloured pillowcases and sheets can be a practical and culturally sensitive approach. For instance, white or blue might be selected, with one colour for areas like the head and the other for areas below the waistline, promoting a sense of respect. I incorporate this into my practice by using a sheet to cover the head hole on the examination bed. When doing implants, some clients may have to lay upside down from the head of the bed, as their head is tapu, and some clients may find it an offence to have their feet at the head of the bed. I find that covering this area helps respect the sacredness and uphold Tikanga. This practice acknowledges the head's sacredness and is committed to honouring Māori cultural principles in everyday interactions. It reflects an understanding that cultural safety goes beyond mere awareness and involves tangible actions that foster a welcoming and respectful environment.

Another way to honour these practices is through thoughtful handling of personal items, such as IUDs and implants, in alignment with Māori customs surrounding the sacredness of the body and its parts. In Māori culture, the body and its components are considered tapu, or sacred. This extends to various items that have been part of a person's body, such as IUDs and implants. Just as Māori traditions emphasise the importance of returning the placenta after birth, acknowledging the sacred nature of these items can be important for some. Returning such items to clients, when appropriate and with respect, aligns with these cultural values and shows a deep understanding of Māori customs. Offering them back as a gesture of honouring their tapu nature reflects a strong commitment to cultural safety and understanding.

Integrating these practices into our work environment demonstrates our deep commitment to cultural safety and respecting Māori cultural principles. By returning personal items like IUDs and implants and using thoughtful bedding practices, we can show a dedication to honouring the sacredness of the body in a way that aligns with Te Ao Māori values.

Open communication with Māori clients about these practices can further enhance cultural safety. It shows a proactive willingness to adapt and accommodate cultural needs, which can build trust and strengthen relationships and rapport with clients. This thoughtful approach helps ensure that the workspace is physically and culturally safe, aligning with the values of Te Ao Māori.

Britney Renfrew (Te Rarawa, Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Paoa, Tainui)