We are a kaupapa Māori support service in Ōtautahi. We have developed a new service in response to the large body of research and knowledge that highlights the first 2000 days of life (conception to 5 years) as the most critical for early brain development. It impacts lifelong hauora (health and wellbeing) and social outcomes. Our service is called Pūmotomoto; the long flute that traditionally chants whakapapa and mātauranga māori wisdom and knowledge through the fontanelle of pēpi in the womb, at birth and in infancy. It is also the Te Reo word for fontanelle.

The first 2000 days of life are the most critical for brain development.  90% of human brain growth occurs at this time! Pēpi from conception to five years is very much moulded by their environment and experiences. From the moment of conception a baby is storing information from their environment which influences their life journey and outcomes. Humans are born with a need for connection and relationship. Nurturing and responsive relationships provide the foundation for best brain growth. Without it pēpi cannot thrive and meet their full potential.

Our service provides wrap around support for whānau, to allow them to care for and nurture pēpi to the best of their ability. Pēpi are taonga and deserve the opportunity to prosper.

Pūmotomoto under the support of Te Oriori (0-12 year programme) and provides:

• Lead Maternity Care services with Manaakitia Midwives
• Mātauranga Māori support
• Whānau voice
• Kaitautoko community worker
• Nursing
• Parent education and guidance
• Rongoā
• counselling
• Breastfeeding assistance 
  
  

Pūmotomoto is a kaupapa Māori support service based in Phillipstown, Christchurch, operating under the Te Oriori (0-12 years) programme. It focuses on the first 2000 days of life, from conception to five years old, a critical period for early brain development and lifelong health and wellbeing. The service offers comprehensive support to whānau, including Lead Maternity Care with Manaakitia Midwives, mātauranga Māori guidance, hapū wānanga (antenatal education), perinatal counselling, lactation consulting, and health education on topics like smokefree living and nutrition.

Referrals to Pūmotomoto can be made through three streams: self-referral, whānau referral, and agency or professional referral.