PĀNUI
NEWS
Oraka Ararau National AOD Hui 2026.
03 / 02/ 2026
Oraka Ararau is a national Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) hui grounded in mātauranga Māori and safe cultural practice, bringing together kaimahi from across the motu who are committed to strengthening hauora outcomes for whānau.
Oraka Ararau is a collective space for connection, learning, and reflection, a place where kaupapa Māori approaches are centred, upheld, and shared.
In 2026, Oraka Ararau will be hosted in Ōtautahi, creating an opportunity for practitioners, leaders, and supporters working across the AOD sector to come together kanohi ki te kanohi. The hui acknowledges the complexity of AOD mahi and responds with care, depth, and cultural integrity.
At its heart, Oraka Ararau is about doing the work in ways that are tika, pono, and mana-enhancing. The hui prioritises safe cultural practice, recognising that effective AOD responses for Māori, and for all communities, must be grounded in respect for whakapapa, tikanga, and the lived realities of whānau.
Through kōrero, wānanga, and shared experiences, Oraka Ararau creates space to explore approaches that uphold mana and strengthen cultural confidence within the workforce. It is a space where kaimahi can reflect on their practice, be challenged, and leave better equipped to support whānau in meaningful ways.
Registrations for Oraka Ararau 2026 are now open, with places available for those working across the AOD sector who are seeking to strengthen their practice through a kaupapa Māori lens. Demand for the hui is strong, reflecting the need for spaces like Oraka Ararau within the sector.
A key focus of Oraka Ararau is building collective capability within the AOD workforce. By creating space for knowledge-sharing and connection, the hui supports kaimahi to return to their communities and organisations with renewed clarity, confidence, and inspiration.
The hui also acknowledges the emotional and relational labour of AOD mahi. By centring hauora and collective care, Oraka Ararau affirms the importance of looking after those who do this work, recognising that sustainable practice begins with supported and resourced kaimahi.
As preparations continue, there is a strong emphasis on creating an environment that feels inclusive, grounded, and purposeful, one where attendees feel safe to engage, contribute, and learn.
