Experiences of New Zealand Māori Mothers’ Engagement with Health and Social Services Post-COVID-19 2020 Lockdown

• DOI: 10.1007/s40615-025-02419-4
• Publication Date: 2025-04-22T18:28:41Z
• Authors: Nikki M. Barrett; Lisette Burrows; Polly Atatoa-Carr; Linda T. Smith
• Keywords: Aotearoa; Thematic Analysis

Abstract Background Despite universal provision of maternity care, Māori (Indigenous peoples Aotearoa/New Zealand) experience significant maternal and infant health disparities compared to their dominant Pākehā (non-Māori) counterparts. This paper examined the lived realities postnatal māmā (mothers) engaging with social services. Enablers barriers were identified better understand what is required strengthen services’ responsiveness needs aspirations. Methods Underpinned by Kaupapa research principles, which are grounded in cultural values, emphasising self-determination, aspirations, a small cohort 17 expectant recruited from childbirth education programme participate three-phase study. Phase three, focus this paper, involved seven semi-structured, open-ended telephone interviews māmā. A thematic analysis, underpinned mana wahine (authority inherent women) theoretical perspective amplified these experiences. Results Five themes that encapsulated participants’ engagement interactions These as follows: (1) right enact tino rangatiratanga (autonomy) self-achievement; (2) services; (3) service system issues; (4) need for greater choice opportunity; (5) impact COVID-19. Conclusions study privileged voices wāhine, highlighting experiences complex often unresponsive system. Participants valued services enabled them exercise rangatiratanga. Echoing other Indigenous Peoples, incorporating culturally relevant practices into perinatal crucial achieving equity addressing disparities.