Media Release: January 2007

The National Maori Working Party of Aotearoa hosts 2nd National Maori Sexual and Reproductive Health Conference in Wellington.

The 1^st National Maori Working Group of Aotearoa today welcomed the support of funding for the upcoming conference to be held on the 7^th – 9^th March 2007 at Takapuwhia Marae, Porirua, Wellington.

This is the 2^nd National Maori Sexuality and Reproductive Health Conference, they are building on the successes of the last conference held in 2004. While the conference is about reaffirming for Maori their right to equal access of Health care services, and celebrating the services that do exist, it is also an opportunity for Maori to grow their knowledge base, share new resources to the sector and strengthen relationships with peers. This will be a place to share, understand and learn about the issues facing Maori, culturally, strategically and in the area of workforce development in Sexuality and Reproductive Health. 

Treatments for harm to one’s Sexuality and Reproductive Health can be like an Accident and Emergency suite. You are prescribed remedies only when you crash. Enlightenment and understanding, henceforth, education and prevention are the key messages.

The Kaupapa is “Pikia Te Poutama kia oti ā runga, kia oti ā raro” which will ensure that the Rangatiratanga of every individual in attendance is important, and everyone will have the opportunity to take away something new they did not have, when they arrived.

For further information telephone 04 801 8859 or visit the Te Puawai Tapu Trust Website http://www.tpt.org.nz  for registration.