Te Kiwi Māia Wellness Weeks

Te Kiwi Māia began running Wellness Weeks in 2024 with the aim of providing a safe healing space for NZDF people and first responders to recover from stress and burnout.

These six-day programmes have a holistic wellbeing approach that includes psychological support, traditional Māori healing (rongoā), trauma yoga, physical training, sleep hygiene and nutrition training, and lived-experience guest speakers.

Clinical psychologist Rajna Bogdanovic believes that Te Kiwi Māia Wellness Weeks are different from anything previously run for first responders.

"They combine all aspects of health with a team of passionate professionals to provide both group and one-on-one support and training."

Fitness and nutrition coach Eru Shelford also believes that these weeks create a space that is just right for recovery.

"The Te Kiwi Māia Wellness Weeks are truly special because they create a safe space for our first responders to openly discuss the intricate layers of their wellbeing. By addressing mental, physical, and emotional aspects, these conversations foster a sense of community and understanding."

These Wellness Weeks have been game-changers for some who have attended.

"The organisers created a truly unique environment - a safe, accepting, and positive space where individuals had autonomy to engage with different approaches to help their mental well-being. It was a powerful emotional experience that left a lasting impression on me about how I support myself and how we support others as leaders. I'm undoubtedly better for it." an NZDF participant said.

About Te Kiwi Māia

Te Kiwi Māia is a charitable trust that aims to provide first responders and members of the NZDF with rehabilitation, recovery and respite. One of their goals is to build a homestead that will be a respite retreat for first responders, Defence Force personnel and their families - a place for rehabilitation and recuperation.

Visit the Te Kiwi Māia website(external link)