Empowering Tamariki Through Tai-oranga: A Funding Victory for Wellbeing in 2026

Bupa Logo

In an exciting development for the wellbeing of our tamariki, our Tai-oranga programme has secured essential funding from Bupa to continue its impactful work through this year and into 2026! This milestone is a testament to the programme’s success in schools, as it equips children with the tools they need to flourish emotionally, mentally, and physically.

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Tai-oranga isn't just another school initiative; it's an engaging, hands-on program designed to involve tamariki in their own wellbeing journey. By embracing the principles of Te Whare Tapa Whā and incorporating elements of positive psychology, Tai-oranga empowers children to take charge of their health and happiness, ensuring they have a voice in their own lives.

What is Tai-oranga?

Tai-oranga Poster

Tai-oranga is a school-based wellbeing programme aimed at empowering tamariki with essential knowledge and skills to care for their minds, bodies, and emotions. Rooted in the holistic model of Te Whare Tapa Whā, it emphasises the significance of mental, physical, social, and spiritual health.

Through dynamic activities and immersive lessons, children explore resilience, emotional literacy, and the benefits of maintaining a well-balanced life. During the 4-hour program, they may engage in mindfulness exercises, craft resilience-building strategies, or participate in group discussions about emotional experiences—all of which serve as important life skills.

The Importance of Wellbeing in Schools

In a rapidly changing world, prioritising the mental and emotional wellbeing of children is crucial. Schools have become environments where children cultivate social skills, emotional intelligence, and resilience.

Tai-oranga meets this need by offering a flexible framework that schools can easily adopt. The programme's interactive and participatory approach ensures that children are not only receiving information but actively engaging with it. Research shows that students who are more involved in their learning tend to perform better academically and socially—this has a positive ripple effect throughout their lives.

Children participating in a Tai-oranga wellbeing activity

Celebrating Progress

The funding victory for Tai-oranga is not simply a win for the programme; it’s something that we can be ultra proud of, knowing that there are tamariki who will reap its rewards. By equipping children with the skills to prioritise their wellbeing, Tai-oranga paves the way for happier and more resilient tamariki and rangitahi.

As we applaud this accomplishment, it’s essential to continue supporting initiatives that emphasise the mental and emotional health of our children. Head to our donations page if you want to support this mahi as well.

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Together, we can create a nurturing environment where tamariki can thrive, learn, and develop into confident, resilient individuals. Ka rawe!