REINVIGORATING HOMEPLACES The impact of house repairs on Māori wellbeing

For many Māori, it is the presence of their kin that transforms a dwelling into a home. However, when that dwelling needs repairs, it can compromise health and wellbeing and be a barrier to homemaking. Two Kaupapa Māori qualitative studies in Hawke’s Bay interviewed 24 whānau members living in 18 whānau-owned houses about the impact of government-funded critical house repairs. Thematic analysis highlighted that critical repairs were primarily needed as a result of financial hardship. Most participants were positive about the repair work done by Māori tradespeople. Dissatisfaction of a few participants demonstrated the need for increased communication between all those involved in the house repairs. When the repair work was completed, homeowners were grateful for drier and warmer houses. Overall, repairing Māori owner-occupied homes improved occupants’ health and wellbeing, revitalised homemaking, inspired renovation plans, and comforted older whānau members about the longevity of their home for future generations.