Understanding Tawhai: A Maori Concept for Creating Safe and Nurturing Environments

Tawhai is a Māori word that can be translated as "to shelter" or "to protect". In the context of Te Whare Tapa Whenua, it refers to the idea of creating a safe and nurturing environment for individuals and communities to grow and thrive. The concept of tawhai is closely tied to the idea of whanaungatanga (family and community) and the importance of building strong relationships with others.

In practice, tawhai can take many forms, such as providing physical shelter or protection from harm, offering emotional support and guidance, or advocating for the rights and well-being of others. The overarching goal of tawhai is to create a sense of safety and security that allows individuals and communities to flourish and reach their full potential.