Report shows our non-violence programme delivers “astounding” impact.

A recent evaluation by The Kingi Ihaka Research Centre has highlighted the significant impact of our tāne non-violence behaviour change programme. The report demonstrates that the programme has led to positive shifts in the lives of tāne and their whānau, creating meaningful improvements in relationships and wellbeing.

One of the key success factors identified in the evaluation is the integration of kaupapa Māori, Māori Christianity, mātauranga Māori and the Te Kawa o te Marae model. This combination provides a comprehensive framework that supports tāne in addressing personal challenges, understanding the roots of violent behaviour and building safer, healthier relationships within their whānau.

“The findings of the report are truly inspiring,” says Elizabeth Walker. “It’s clear that this programme is making a tangible difference in the lives of tāne and their whānau. These results confirm the programme’s value and motivate us to expand its reach to help even more families.”

The Kingi Ihaka Research Centre’s evaluation highlights the programme’s ability to drive positive change, with tāne showing notable progress in their own lives, relationships and communities.

The evaluation also underscores the vital role of the Kaiako, whose expertise and guidance are key to the programme’s success. Tāne who have participated have shared overwhelmingly positive feedback, noting the transformative impact it has had on themselves, their partners, tamariki, and whānau.

“We see the change unfold in real time,” says one of our Kaiako. “Tāne recognise they have the power to break the cycle of violence and choose a better path forward.”

“The programme changed the way that we think about our own whare. Like, we wouldn’t smoke, drink alcohol or fight in the wharenui. Then the Kaiako turned it around and goes, ‘you know, that’s how you should treat your own whare’.” – Tāne