Over the raumati break you might see our new health promotion video campaign called Te Pito Mata - calling for whānau to rethink their drinking over the Christmas holiday.
The videos ask people to consider how and when social drinking can become harmful, with the overall goal of reducing the amount of alcohol we drink.
Whakataukī (Māori proverbs) inspire and encourage whānau to consider behaviours that support their growth, to plan ahead for future generations and to consider alternatives to alcohol when facing social pressure to drink or other challenging situations.
You will see one video focusing on the risks of drinking while hāpu. The other two highlight the impact of social drinking, and its potential harm, on whānau – particularly tamariki and rangatahi.
"In the lead up to Christmas, we want to reach people's hearts and minds," says Charles Clover, Te Ata Pūao programme coordinator, who narrates two of three videos. "We want whānau to know they are all worthy of good health.
"We also want to let everyone know of the many services we have available - our navigators, doctors, programme facilitators and clinicians are here to discuss hauora options with you."
Sonia Hepi-Treanor, who narrates the third video, reminds wāhine there is no known safe level of alcohol consumption during pregnancy and encourages those who are planning to be hāpu to contact Te Piki Oranga Māori Wellness Services for advice.
Look out for the videos on Te Piki Oranga’s social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter and on tpo.org.nz over raumati.
"Whānau can click on links and self assess before making the choice to change their behaviour and deciding to commit to a health service journey," says Charles.
Ngā Pūkenga Toitu Te Ora, a Waipiro me Tarutaru Kino (alcohol and other drug counsellors) will be available to support those who want to make changes.
Charles would like to acknowledge ‘Te Hiringa Hauora Health Promotions’ for offering this opportunity to promote alcohol reduction messages to the communities of Te Tauihu. He also acknowledges alcohol.org.nz who do an awesome job by offering freely accessible information and acting as a community/digital connector.
