Stella Rihari

My role is to identify the cultural needs of patients so that we can deliver a culturally specific response to their end-of-life care as well as supporting their families/whānau, friends and carers. We look to ensure tikanga and kawa are upheld through the values and preference of Māori and are reflected by applying Māori traditions and processes through a holistic approach. We provide advocacy and support networks to the patients’ carers so they have what they need to continue to support their loved one at home. We also offer support in the bereavement phase. The other side of my role is to educate and support Hospice staff to work with a culturally sensitive approach, to guide them in having hui and to engage with whānau so the families/whānau, friends and carers are aware of what is happening for their loved one.