At Te Hā o Maru, our mental health support is known as Te Ama – the outrigger of the waka that provides stability, balance, and support through turbulent waters.

Just like the ama of a waka, which helps steady the canoe and keeps it on course even in rough seas, Te Ama exists to support individuals and whānau through life’s challenges, offering strength and guidance before, during, and after times of mental distress.

Services:

Pre- and Post-Crisis Support

Our skilled and compassionate team provides timely and flexible support for those navigating mental health challenges:

• Pre-crisis: Early intervention and de-escalation strategies to help prevent a full mental health crisis from occurring.

• Post-crisis: Recovery-focused support and guidance after a crisis, to restore wellbeing, connection, and confidence.

We work closely with individuals, whānau, and other services to ensure wraparound care that respects cultural values and lived experience.

Mental Health Navigation

Navigating mental health services can be overwhelming. Our Mental Health Navigators walk alongside you to:

• Understand what support is available

• Access the right services for your unique needs

• Advocate for yourself or your whānau

• Build a pathway toward healing and long-term wellbeing

Our Navigators work holistically – weaving together medical, cultural, and community supports so you're not left adrift.

Why “Te Ama”?

In the traditions of waka ama, the ama (outrigger float) is attached to the main hull to provide stability, especially when waters are rough. It ensures the waka does not tip or veer off course. Without it, the journey can be perilous – but with it, the waka can ride the waves with balance and strength.

This is the heart of our approach to mental health.

Te Ama is your stabiliser, your counterbalance. When emotions surge, when life gets unsteady, our team is there to tautoko (support), to awhi (embrace), and to help you navigate toward calmer waters. Just as the ama gives balance to the waka, our services offer support and stability for your mental and emotional wellbeing.

Te Ama is about recognising that mental health is not separate from the journey – it’s part of it. And with the right support in place, every one of us can navigate through stormy seas and return to safe shores.

If you, or someone you love, needs mental health support – whether it’s guidance, recovery, or simply someone to walk alongside you – reach out to Te Ama.

We’re here to help you steady the waka.