The Whanaungatanga Model of Care.

The 1988 Royal Commission on Social Policy recommended that the Treaty of Waitangi ('the Treaty'), be "enshrined" within social policy. Subsequently health care organisations have integrated the Treaty principles as defined by the Royal Commission (1988)--partnership, protection and participation--into the philosophies underpinning their services. Through the Treaty partnership at Tauranga Hospital a unique secondary health service evolved, one that is delivered by Maori for Maori. The Kaupapa nursing service at Te Puna Hauora implements an indigenous health model, the Whanaungatanga Model of Care, to guide nursing practice. This paper describes the Kaupapa Service and the model it uses. It also explores the benefits and challenges associated with implementing such a model.