Rongoā Rakau – Traditional Māori Plant-Based Remedies for Holistic Well-Being
Rongoā Rakau – Traditional Māori Plant-Based Remedies for Holistic Well-Being
The practice of Rongoā Rakau, or native plant-based remedies, draws on the rich flora of Aotearoa and select non-native plants to support well-being. Rooted in Māori cultural values and ancestral wisdom, Rongoā Rakau honours the connection between people, the natural world, and the restorative properties of plants.
Supporting Wāhine and Whare Tangata Well-Being
For wāhine (women) navigating challenges with their whare tangata (reproductive system), such as ikura (menstrual cycles), PCOS, endometriosis, menopause, or hormonal imbalances, Rongoā Rakau provides meaningful support:
- Whakapapa (Ancestral Lineage): The plants used in Rongoā Rakau embody the essence of whakapapa and mauri (life force energy), aligning care practices with the natural rhythms of the earth.
- Targeted Support: Products like rongoā whakaaio, available as hinu (oil), pani (balm), or tincture, are thoughtfully formulated to promote hormonal balance, soothe the mind, and foster emotional resilience.
For those experiencing PMS, PCOS, or menopause, these products gently support the body’s natural rhythms and offer comfort during transitions.
Physical and Emotional Benefits
- Physical Support: Rongoā Rakau may provide comfort for menstrual cramps, muscle tension, inflammation, and skin concerns such as dryness or irritation, supporting overall vitality.
- Emotional Balance: These products encourage calmness and resilience, offering wāhine a sense of balance and empowerment during times of stress or change.
Caring for Whānau (Family)
Rongoā Rakau provides gentle, nurturing care for māmā (mothers) and tamariki (children), fostering physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being for the entire whānau:
- Rangatahi (Teens): Offers support during adolescence, encouraging confidence and vitality.
- Hapū Māmā (Pregnant Mothers): Promotes well-being and relaxation during pregnancy, aiding in the transition of nurturing new life.
Holistic Values in Practice
Rongoā Rakau reflects the values of:
- Whakapapa (Ancestral Lineage): Recognising our connection to those who came before.
- Mauri (Life Force Energy): Honouring the flow of life within all living things.
- Manaakitanga (Care and Hospitality): Creating a nurturing and supportive environment for well-being.
Guiding Wellness with Nature
Rongoā Rakau offers more than physical comfort; it reconnects individuals with the natural world, fostering a sense of reverence and respect for the interconnectedness of life. Through the restorative properties of native plants, it provides wāhine and their whānau with support to navigate their wellness journey with empowerment and balance.
Whakapakari Ora invites you to walk with us on a journey of reconnection, healing and mātauranga Māori.
Our wānanga and events are open to the public and grounded in kaupapa Māori values of manaakitanga, wairuatanga, and kaitiakitanga. These spaces are created to uplift community wellbeing, share traditional knowledge, and strengthen our connection to te taiao (the natural world).
We offer a range of experiences throughout the motu, including:
- 🌿 Rongoā Workshops – hands-on learning in mirimiri, rongoā rākau (native plant medicine), and traditional healing practices
- 🚶♀️ Hīkoi Series – guided nature walks exploring rākau Māori, pūrākau (storytelling), and spiritual grounding
- 🧶 Weaving Workshops – collaborative raranga experiences delivered with our hoa mahi at Kahu Collective, weaving both fibres and community
- 🧘♀️ Guided Meditations & Wairua Practices – calming sessions to align wairua and hinengaro, grounded in maramataka and te taiao
- 🩺 Koha-Based Community Clinics – accessible mirimiri and holistic rongoā services offered with aroha
Our events align with the maramataka (Māori lunar calendar), creating opportunities to attune with the natural rhythms of the moon and environment.
📅 Browse Upcoming Events
Our upcoming wānanga and clinics are listed below. Click on each event for details and bookings.
👉 [Explore the Collection Above]
Spaces are limited, and koha-based clinics may book out quickly — we encourage early registration.
For pātai, group bookings, or collaborations, please contact us at info@whakapakariora.com.

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Choose from our three locations; New Brighton and Christchurch City. Or book for an Online Consultation.