The next He Aka Hui in the Whāriki Addiction Series focuses on harm reduction in the context of alcohol and other drug use in Aotearoa. This session brings together voices from practice, policy, and community to explore harm reduction approaches that centre equity, cultural integrity, and lived experience. 

When: Wednesday 20th August 10.30am – 12pm
Where: Zoom
Register here.

Alcohol and drug-related harm continues to disproportionately impact Māori, Pacific, and other minoritised communities. This kōrero will explore what harm reduction looks like when it’s grounded in tikanga, community knowledge, and mana-enhancing practice and how policy and frontline interventions can better reflect the needs of those most affected. We’re privileged to be joined by:
Dr Andre McLachlan, who will share a Te Ao Māori perspective on harm reduction, drawing on mātauranga Māori and tikanga-based approaches.
Ben Birks Ang from the New Zealand Drug Foundation, who will speak to the delivery of practical harm reduction services — including drug checking, safer use education, and health-based policy advocacy. This hui is for anyone working in health, social services, policy, or community spaces who is committed to reducing harm and building compassionate, culturally responsive systems of care. Nau mai, haere mai – all are welcome.