Tama'ita'i Toa, 5th April 2024
2024-04-05 09:30 - 15:00 (Pacific/Auckland) | Fickling Convention Centre, 546 Mt Albert Road, Three Kings, Auckland 1042, Auckland, New Zealand
If the cost is prohibitive please contact events@pada.nz directly as we do have some sponsored places available across our workshops.

Perinatal Mental Health Awareness Week - Online Connection Hui
2024-04-29 12:00 - 13:00 (Pacific/Auckland)
This year’s Perinatal Mental Health Awareness Week is about connection.
Human beings are inherently social creatures and meaningful connections with others provide a sense of belonging, support, and validation.
As service providers we offer this to our clients but who offers it to us?
As a sector we need to support each other so please join us for this online connection session to share what you are working on with others and understand how we can all help each other to keep pushing forward in our critical supportive roles.

PADA Cultural Series - Auckland - 3 May 2024
2024-05-03 09:00 - 15:30 (Pacific/Auckland) | Jet Park Auckland Airport, 63 Westney Road, Māngere, Auckland, New Zealand
PADA Cultural Competency Seminar
South Auckland | Tāmaki Makaurau

Rāmere 3 Mei | Friday 3 May 2024 9:00am – 3.30pm
Jet Park Auckland Airport
63 Westney Road, Māngere, Auckland
Cultural awareness seminar for people working in pregnancy, childbirth & early parenting. Midwives can attract Continuing Education Hours

These seminars provide professional development for those supporting families affected by anxiety or depression related to pregnancy, childbirth and early parenthood. When participants leave each seminar, they will better understand how these topics impact families, and strengthen their knowledge and skills to help improve perinatal outcomes.
NGĀ KAIKORERO | PRESENTERS
Jo Teina Manaakitanga – The act of caring PADA Educator Māori/Kaumātua
Jasmine Davis How to engage and build relationships with Pasifika whānau PADA Educator Pasifika
Shaqaiak Masomi ADHB Midwife Te Toka Tumai Auckland
Dr Vartika Sharma and A/Prof Rachel Simon-Kumar Senior Research Fellow Social and Community Health University of Auckland
Leah Nausbaum Mother’s Helpers Social worker
Registration
Registration Options:
Non Member – $125 PADA
Member/Full time students – $100

If the cost is prohibitive please contact events@pada.nz directly as we do have some sponsored places available across our workshops.

Shear off the Stigma
2024-05-05 10:00 - 12:00 (Pacific/Auckland) | Northland Rugby Union, located in William Fraser Memorial Park, 136 Riverside Drive, Parahaki, Whangārei, 0112, New Zealand
Shear Off The Stigma – Shave for Perinatal Mental Wellbeing
We are proud to announce our campaign ‘Shear Off The Stigma – Shave for Perinatal Mental Wellbeing’ ✂️ in collaboration with Rochelle Judkins.

This is a fundraising campaign event which will be live streamed on Facebook and YouTube for Perinatal Mental Health Awareness Week (April 29th – May 5th) from 10am-12pm. With the physical event itself being held at the Northland Rugby Club Rooms in Whangārei for anyone who wants to join.
The aim is to bring perinatal mental wellbeing into the light, ending the stigma by normalising common experiences, and facilitating discussion on problem-solving approaches that can help empower every parent in their perinatal mental health journey.
Rochelle Judkins and Mitch Thompson will be speaking on their lived experiences with the event ending with Rochelle shaving her head down to a zero to raise money for PADA.
With a goal of raising $10,000, every dollar is appreciatively received, and will go to PADA to fund perinatal mental health support, education, and initiatives in Aotearoa.
To donate, visit Rochelle’s givealittle page here https://givealittle.co.nz/fundraiser/shear-the-stigma-shave-for-perinatal-mental-health

Hine tu Hine Ora - 10 May
2024-05-10 09:30 - 15:00 (Pacific/Auckland) | O Wairoa Marae, 37 Uxbridge Road, Mellons Bay,, Auckland 2014, New Zealand

Tama'ita'i Toa, 17th May 2024
2024-05-17 09:30 - 15:00 (Pacific/Auckland) | Uxbridge Arts and Culture, 35 Uxbridge Road, Mellons Bay, Auckland, 2014, New Zealand

PADA Wellbeing Series - Gisborne - 7 June 2024
2024-06-07 09:00 - 15:30 (Pacific/Auckland) | Emerald Hotel, 13 Gladstone Road, Gisborne, 4010
PERINATAL EDUCATION OPPORTUNITY

This event is a trauma informed perinatal care seminar.

A one day professional development workshop for those who are professionally or volunteeringly working with families in the perinatal space. Our goal is to help people who come into contact with whānau at this stage of their lives to understand what the risks and triggers are for mental distress, and what barriers people face in asking for help, and how to approach the issue when they see signs of it. How can people create a safe space for everyone through their child birth journey?

NGĀ KAIKŌRERO (SPEAKERS):

Jessy Lerm | Te Hiringa Ora – Mataora
Joanne Teina | PADA – Educator Māori
Janet McGuiness | Wai Ū Tairāwhiti / Breastfeeding East Coast – Community Lactation Consultant
Serra Clark | University of Otago – Lived Experience Educator
Dr Nimisha Waller | Auckland University of Technology – Senior Lecturer Midwifery

Thank you to our funders: Trust Tairāwhiti, COGS, Emerald Hotel, and The Tindall Foundation.

REGISTRATION OPTIONS$125 Non-PADA Member$100 PADA Member/Student

LIMITED SPACES – YOU MUST REGISTER TO ATTEND. Purchase tickets below.

PADA Wellbeing Series - Lower Hutt - 26 June 2024
2024-06-26 09:00 - 15:30 UTC | Lower Hutt, Lower Hutt, New Zealand
Supporting wellbeing in pregnancy, childbirth & early parenting when things don’t go to plan
These seminars provide professional development for those supporting families affected by anxiety or depression related to pregnancy, childbirth and early parenthood. When participants leave each seminar, they will better understand how these topics impact families, and strengthen their knowledge and skills to help improve perinatal outcomes.
Rāapa 26 Hune 2024 |Wednesday 26th June 2024
9:00am – 3.30pm
Ricoh Sports Centre Fraser Park
237 Taita Drive, Avalon, Lower Hutt 5011

NGĀ KAIKORERO | PRESENTERS
Serra Clark
Lived Experience Educator, Otago University
Kate Hicks
Birth Trauma Aotearoa
Liz Childs
Pelvic Physio
Vicki Culling
Vicki Culling Associates
Lauren Sims
Lived Experience -Little Miracles
Karen Howes
OCD/Intrusive Thoughts
Registration Options
General admission – $125
PADA Member/Full time students – $100
We have a limited number of sponsored spaces at this seminar for people who can not otherwise afford to come. Please email events@pada.nz for more details.

PADA Wellbeing Seminar - Napier - 20 August
2024-08-20 09:00 - 15:30 (Pacific/Auckland) | Napier War Memorial Centre, 48 Marine Parade, Napier, New Zealand
Mental Wellbeing and Community
These seminars provide professional development for those supporting families affected by anxiety or depression related to pregnancy, childbirth and early parenthood. When participants leave each seminar, they will better understand how these topics impact families, and strengthen their knowledge and skills to help improve perinatal outcomes.

Midwives can attract Continuing Education Hours

NGĀ KAIKōRERO | PRESENTERS
Justine Pack-England
Use of Positive Psychology in Supporting Mothers Flourish
Karen Howes
Identifying POCD and Intrusive Thoughts
De Nicholls
Making Breastfeeding Work
Tee Whiting
Real and Perceived Barriers to Seeking Help

Moana Walford
Mamia – Child and Maternal Wellbeing through Connection, Love and Nurture

Community Groups
Sharing who they are, how they can help whānau, accessing services, and how they maintain the drive and resources required to keep going.
The Ruth Project Wairarapa – Abby Hollingsworth
Sands Hawke’s Bay – Hanna Smaling
Parent to Parent – Jill Fallowfield
Napier Family Centre – Jill and Sharon

9:00am – 3.30pm Rātū 20 Ākuhata 2024 | Tuesday 20th August 2024
Napier War Memorial Centre 48 Marine Parade, Napier

Registration Options Non Member – $125 PADA Member/Full time students – $100 Register: www.pada.nz/events
We have been provided funds to offer scholarships for people to attend who can not otherwise afford to. Please contact events@pada.nz for more details

PADA Wellbeing Series - Kirikiriroa | Hamilton - Tuesday 19 November 2024
2024-11-19 09:00 - 15:30 (Pacific/Auckland) | Novotel Hamilton Tainui, 7 Alma Street, Hamilton Central, Hamilton, 3244, New Zealand
PERINATAL EDUCATION OPPORTUNITY
These seminars provide professional development for healthcare providers supporting families affected by perinatal distress related to pregnancy, childbirth and early parenthood.
The theme is: WHAKAORANGA WHĀNAU WHAIORA

Our aim for this seminar is to empower participants to confidently integrate trauma-informed care principles into their practice. By recognising signs of distress and trauma, responding with empathy and appropriate interventions, and creating a safe, culturally sensitive environment, participants will enhance their ability to support healing and resilience in both individuals and whānau. Additionally, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how trauma affects mental, emotional, and physical health, equipping them to foster a more supportive and effective care environment.
Midwives can attract Continuing Education Hours.
NGĀ KAIKŌRERO (SPEAKERS):

Moana Waitoki | Clinical Psychologist | Associate Professor at Te Pua Wananga ki te Ao / University of Waikato |
Jess Kraenzlin | Counsellor at Te Kōhao Health
Jacqui Coates-Harris | Private Perinatal Mental Health Specialist
Clare Barnett | Director at Mindcare Counselling and Training
Kathy Thomasen | Mental Health Nurse with the Health Waikato Perinatal Mental Health team
Ann Aitken Worth | Registered Clinical Psychologist

OPENING AND WHAKAWHANAUNGATANGA:

Joanne Teina | PADA Kaumātua and Kaiārahi Māori

Thank you to our funders: COGS and The Tindall Foundation.

REGISTRATION OPTIONS$125 Non-PADA Member$100 PADA Member/Student
Please email admin@pada.nz if you have any questions.
LIMITED SPACES – YOU MUST REGISTER TO ATTEND.
Purchase tickets below!

Applying Treaty Principles in Perinatal Practice - Tuesday 4 February 2025
2025-02-04 12:00 - 13:00 (Pacific/Auckland) | Online – Zoom link will be emailed to you
Please join Jo Teina, PADA Kaumātua and Kāiarahi Māori, for a free online session to talk about Applying the Treaty Principles in Perinatal Practice.
Register your details below and you will be sent a Zoom link to join the session on the day.

Hine Tū Hine Ora - 7 February 2025 | Kawakawa - Far North
2025-02-07 09:00 - 16:00 (Pacific/Auckland) | Kawakawa Library, 56 Gillies Street, Kawakawa, 0210, New Zealand
Hine Tū Hine Ora is training for those working with whānau in the perinatal period.
Born out of the 13th PMMRC report, Hine Tū Hine Ora is a PADA programme that aspires to enable communities and healthcare practitioners to support wāhine Māori and their whānau in the perinatal period with mental health struggles from a trauma informed lens.
Joanne Teina, Ngāti Apakura, Ngāti Maniapoto, is a retired midwife and nurse and traditional Māori birthing expert who is passionate about perinatal mental health because of her own lived journey and that of her whānau. Hine Tū Hine Ora is a workshop that teaches not only cultural competency but empathy as well, through an innovative approach; The Empathy Game.
Thank you to the MAS Foundation and COGS for supporting us with funding for this Hine Tū Hine Ora.
Spaces are limited, you must register to attend. Please purchase tickets below.
For those that are not working and would like to attend, please contact us on office@pada.co.nz for sponsorship options.

PADA Rainbow Series | Takatāpui - 27 February 2025 | Auckland
2025-02-27 09:00 - 15:30 (Pacific/Auckland) | Rydges Auckland, 59 Federal Street, Auckland Central, Auckland, 1010, New Zealand
💜 Thanks to the overwhelming support this event has now sold out 💜
These seminars provide professional development for healthcare providers supporting families affected by perinatal distress related to pregnancy, childbirth and early parenthood.
Join us at the TAKATĀPUI seminar for our PADA Rainbow Series to explore how we can co-create a maternity system that honours the diverse journeys of Takatāpui and Rainbow parents. Together, we can ensure every whānau feels valued, seen, and supported.
Takatāpui individuals and Rainbow communities deserve a maternity system that recognises their mana and supports their journey to build their whānau. Research shows that at least 20% of trans individuals aspire to have tamariki (Trans Pregnancy Care Project), and this number is bound to grow when care becomes genuinely inclusive, culturally responsive, and mana-enhancing.
Midwives can attract Continuing Education Hours.
Tāmaki Makaurau | Auckland at Rydges Auckland
SPEAKERS:
💜 Tash Wharerau
💙 Dr Elizabeth Kerekere (she/her/ia)
💚 Lani Eagle and Carlijn Dieleman – Counsellors at Repromed (a Takatāpui welcoming Fertility and Counselling Clinic)
Thanks to their Hononga Takatāpui fund – the Burnett Foundation Aotearoa have given us an incredibly generous donation to help bring this seminar to you and it also allows us to offer tickets at a discounted rate.
Thank you to COGS for their funding support also!
💜💚💙
Spaces are limited, you must register below to attend.
REGISTRATION OPTIONS
General Admission/Non-Member: $70
PADA Members/Full-time Students: $50
For any queries, please email admin@pada.nz

Hine Tū Hine Ora - 31 March 2025 - Arrowtown - South Island
2025-03-31 09:00 - 16:00 (Pacific/Auckland) | Nelson – Venue to be announced soon, TBC, Nelson, South Island, 7010, New Zealand
Hine Tū Hine Ora – South Island Training on 31 March
Hine Tū Hine Ora is designed for those supporting whānau during the perinatal period. This vital training programme, developed from the insights of the 13th PMMRC report, empowers communities and healthcare professionals to assist wāhine Māori and their whānau facing mental health challenges during this critical time, all through a trauma-informed lens.
Led by Joanne Teina, Ngāti Apakura, Ngāti Maniapoto – a retired midwife, nurse, and expert in traditional Māori birthing – this workshop is deeply rooted in personal experience and a commitment to improving perinatal mental health. Hine Tū Hine Ora goes beyond cultural competency, integrating empathy through the innovative tool, The Empathy Game.
We’re grateful to the MAS Foundation for their generous support of this training initiative.
Spaces are limited, so be sure to register to secure your spot. Purchase tickets below.
If you’re not currently working but would like to attend, please reach out to us at office@pada.co.nz for sponsorship opportunities.

PADA ONLINE SEMINAR SERIES - DISABILITY IN THE PERINATAL PERIOD
2025-05-07 12:00 - 13:00 (Pacific/Auckland) | Online – Zoom link will be emailed to you
Join us for a ‘Lunch and Learn’ experience with PADA as we discuss the impact that disabilities can have on accessing the birthing system and the follow-on mental health impacts during the perinatal period
We will be exploring this topic from two angles :
– How suitable support can be provided to a person with a disability during their perinatal period through advocacy and accessibility to services.
– How to provide support to parents who receive a diagnosis early on in pregnancy, or give birth to a child with a disability.
We will be hearing from 4 amazing speakers who each have their own lived experience as well working for organisations who offer guidance and support for whānau living with a disability.
Anna Reed: Anna currently works as a Disability Rights education primary health care worker and will share her experience as a person with a disability going through the health care service for her two pregnancies.
Meredith Dyer: Meredith is the Wellington Coordinator for the organisation Parent 2 Parent and will be discussing the services it provides,the importance of focusing on enabling the Good Life Principles when talking with a patient and remembering the societal view of disability as well as the medical view point. She is also the host of podcast ‘Thats good to know’ which focuses on stories and experiences of parents/caregivers who have a disabled or neurodivergent child.
Zandra Vaccarino: Zandra is the national executive officer for the New Zealand Down Syndrome Association. She will be discussing ways to support parents who have received a Down Syndrome diagnosis through the screening process. The importance of providing non biased support and information covering all options that are available to the family. Focusing on the family experience from the moment they receive the result through to support that should be offered to them during the pregnancy and after ( such as non objective counselling).
Amy Castle: PADA General Manager, Amy will be sharing her lived experience, through a traumatic birth and the subsequent impacts of navigating motherhood with a child with disabilitites.
These seminars provide professional development for healthcare providers supporting families affected by perinatal distress related to pregnancy, childbirth, and early parenthood. When participants leave each seminar, they will better understand how these topics impact families, and strengthen their knowledge and skills to help improve perinatal outcomes.

2-Day HONO 'Hui & Fono' fused Perinatal Wellbeing Conference: 8-9 May 2025 - Tāmaki Makaurau
2025-05-08 09:30 - 2025-05-09 17:00 (Pacific/Auckland) | Private: Papakura Marae, 29 Hunua Road, Auckland, Papakura, 2110, New Zealand
Focus: Transformative 2-Day Hono for Health Professionals and Community Leaders in the Pasifika and Māori perinatal mental health space.
Hosted by Jo Teina and Jasmine Davis this transformative 2-day Hono brings together health professionals and community leaders, to explore and strengthen culturally appropriate approaches to perinatal mental health. Rooted in Pacifika and Maori values, this event aims to build meaningful connections and share knowledge that supports the mental wellbeing of Pasifika and Maori mothers and their whānau.
Start Times: Thursday 8 May: 9:30 AM and Friday 9 May 9:00 AM
🎙️ SPEAKERS:
Our current line up of speakers across the two days are:
Ayla Hoeta – University of Auckland & Ao Maramaa Maramataka App
Matthew Kiore – Te Rau Ora, Centre of Maori Suicide Prevention
Loata Tiapapa – Learning Vaka Manager for Tapuaki
Dr Siale Foliaki – Psychiatrist, Lead Pacific Researcher in Te Rau Hinengaro (NZ mental health survey)
Tupu Setu Sio – Project Manager for Round the Tanoa (Moana connect)
Dr Amio Matenga Ikihele – Moana Connect
Hine Ora, Hine Tu Students sharing their Journey with Lived experience
EFKS auckland youth choir – Winners of Musika Moana 2024
and Aualuma Siva Group
With many more speakers to be released

🌟 SPECIAL thanks to MAS Foundation for their generous support 🌟

PADA Cultural Series | Cultural Competency - 10 June 2025 | Wellington
2025-06-10 09:00 - 15:30 (Pacific/Auckland) | Raupō Room at Papa Hou, 4 Rolleston Avenue, Christchurch, Christchurch, 8013, New Zealand
PERINATAL EDUCATION OPPORTUNITY
Focus: Cultural Competency – Cultural awareness seminar for people working in pregnancy, childbirth, and early parenthood.

These seminars provide professional development for healthcare providers supporting families affected by perinatal distress related to pregnancy, childbirth, and early parenthood. When participants leave each seminar, they will better understand how these topics impact families, and strengthen their knowledge and skills to help improve perinatal outcomes.
Midwives can attract Continuing Education Hours
💜💚💙
🎙 PADA Cultural Competence Wellington speakers confirmed
✨ Facilitated by the Hine Ora Hine Tuu Ropu.
🎙 SPEAKERS:
🔹 Jo Teina Manaakitanga – The act of caring PADA Educator Māori/Kaumātua
🔹 Shaqaiak Masomi – A DHB Midwife Te Toka Tumai Auckland
🔹 Dr Nimisha Waller – Auckland University of Technology – Senior Lecturer Midwifery
🔹 Dr Vartika Sharma – Senior Lecturer & Research Fellow – Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences – University of Auckland
✨ Limited Spaces – Don’t wait, register today!
Thank you to our funders Hutt Mana Charitable Trust and COGS for helping to make this seminar possible.
Registration Options:
Tickets are FREE but you will need to register
For any queries, please email admin@pada.nz
Spaces are limited, you must register to attend – purchase tickets below.

🌿 Hine Ora Hine Tuu – Lunchtime Wānanga Series - FREE | ONLINE | 12pm – 3pm | 11 June ✨ WEEK 1: Whakawhanaungatanga & Working with Trauma
2025-06-11 12:00 - 15:00 (Pacific/Auckland) | Online – Zoom link will be emailed to you
FREE | ONLINE SERIES |12pm – 3pm | 11, 18 & 25 June
Join us for a powerful three-week lunchtime wānanga series centering whānau, wairua, and the wellbeing of māmā and pēpi. This kaupapa is for anyone supporting whānau through the perinatal period—midwives, kaimahi, social workers, hauora providers, and community champions.
✨ WEEK 1: Whakawhanaungatanga & Working with Trauma
📅 Wednesday 11 June | 12pm – 3pm We introduce the kaupapa of Hine Ora Hine Tuu and explore the importance of whakawhanaungatanga. This session focuses on how historical and complex trauma impacts māmā and whānau—and what safe, relational care looks like.
🔗 Zoom link will be circulated 24hrs prior to the event.

🌿 Hine Ora Hine Tuu – Lunchtime Wānanga Series - FREE | ONLINE | 12pm - 2pm | 18 June🗣 WEEK 2: Kōrero Māmaatoa – Voices of Lived Experience
2025-06-18 12:00 - 14:00 (Pacific/Auckland) | Online – Zoom link will be emailed to you
FREE | ONLINE SERIES |12pm – 2pm | 11, 18 & 25 June
Join us for a powerful three-week lunchtime wānanga series centering whānau, wairua, and the wellbeing of māmā and pēpi. This kaupapa is for anyone supporting whānau through the perinatal period—midwives, kaimahi, social workers, hauora providers, and community champions.
🗣 WEEK 2: Kōrero Māmaatoa – Voices of Lived Experience
📅 Wednesday 18 June | 12pm – 2pm
Join a panel of courageous māmā as they share their personal experiences of perinatal distress, healing, and navigating support systems. Come ready to listen deeply, reflect, and be moved.
🔗 Zoom link will be circulated 24hrs prior to the event.

🌿 Hine Ora Hine Tuu – Lunchtime Wānanga Series - FREE | ONLINE | 12pm – 2pm | 25 June 🧠 WEEK 3: Foundations in Perinatal Mental Health – E-learning Intro
2025-06-25 12:00 - 14:00 (Pacific/Auckland) | Online – Zoom link will be emailed to you
FREE | ONLINE SERIES | 12pm – 2pm | 11, 18 & 25 June
Join us for a powerful three-week lunchtime wānanga series centering whānau, wairua, and the wellbeing of māmā and pēpi. This kaupapa is for anyone supporting whānau through the perinatal period—midwives, kaimahi, social workers, hauora providers, and community champions.
🧠 WEEK 3: Foundations in Perinatal Mental Health – E-learning Intro
📅 Wednesday 25 June | 12pm – 2pm
We introduce key knowledge for working in perinatal mental health and provide an overview of an accessible e-learning resource for all those walking alongside māmā and whānau.
🔗 Zoom link will be circulated 24hrs prior to the event.

PADA Parliamentary Breakfast 31st July 7.00am-9.30am
2025-07-31 07:00 - 09:30 (Pacific/Auckland) | Banquet Hall, Parliament Building., 1 Molesworth Street, Wellington, New Zealand
Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Aotearoa Parliamentary Breakfast.
The Honourable Matt Doocey, Minister for Mental Health and Associate Minister of Health cordially invites you to attend our inaugural PADA Parliamentary Breakfast.
We want this event to stand apart from others — not just in purpose but in experience. To that end, we are designing an interactive journey to help attendees understand what it can feel like to experience maternal mental distress and the frustration of being unable to access appropriate support.

At the heart of this gathering is a strong commitment:
To foster an enduring partnership between government and community that results in tangible improvements to maternal mental health services and outcomes.
Our goals for the event are to:

Highlight the ongoing barriers to screening and early intervention, and why these persist, from a midwife’s and GP’s perspective.
Share a vision for a functional, compassionate maternal mental health system- from those currently working in the system.
Strengthen the voice and impact of lived experience- Lived Experience Panel.
Establish a foundation for ongoing, meaningful engagement between policymakers and the community- PADA and supporting MPs.

This event is aimed at the following attendees- health professionals working with families in the perinatal mental health space, Ministers, community workers, and whanau.

Registration Options:
General Admission tickets(breakfast included): $50
Sponsor a ticket for someone else (breakfast included): $50
If cost is a barrier for you attending please make contact with us at office@pada.nz
Spaces are limited, you must register to attend – purchase tickets below.

Hine Tū Hine Ora - Thursday 4 September 2025 - Nelson - South Island
2025-09-04 09:00 - 16:00 (Pacific/Auckland) | Riverside Community, 289 Main Road Lower Moutere, Upper Moutere, Nelson, 7175, New Zealand
Hine Tū Hine Ora – South Island Training on Thursday 4 September
Hine Tū Hine Ora is designed for those supporting whānau during the perinatal period. This vital training programme, developed from the insights of the 13th PMMRC report, empowers communities and healthcare professionals to assist wāhine Māori and their whānau facing mental health challenges during this critical time, all through a trauma-informed lens.
Led by Joanne Teina, Ngāti Apakura, Ngāti Maniapoto – a retired midwife, nurse, and expert in traditional Māori birthing – this workshop is deeply rooted in personal experience and a commitment to improving perinatal mental health. Hine Tū Hine Ora goes beyond cultural competency, integrating empathy through the innovative tool, The Empathy Game.
We’re grateful to the MAS Foundation for their generous support of this training initiative.
Spaces are limited, so be sure to register to secure your spot. Purchase tickets below.
If you’re not currently working but would like to attend, please reach out to us at office@pada.co.nz for sponsorship opportunities.

ONLINE | Provider Connection Hui | Monday 22 September 2025
2025-09-22 09:30 - 11:00 (Pacific/Auckland) | Online – Zoom link will be emailed to you
To help keep the conversation going, we’d like to invite you to the next Provider Connection Hui — open to all who attended the breakfast and those who were unable to make it.
This will be a space to share updates, reflections, and discuss how we move forward together.

Neurodiversity Workshop | Online - Monday 13 October 2025
2025-10-13 09:30 - 12:30 (Pacific/Auckland) | Online — Teams link will be emailed to you
♾️ NEURODIVERSITY ONLINE WORKSHOP
Perspectives of Neurodivergent Parents in Birth, Pregnancy and First Year of Baby’s Life
This three-hour workshop provides resources, education and strategies on common neurodevelopment conditions by exploring how we can help those effected by mental illness in the perinatal period focusing on the role of neuro-difference has on perceptions of self, others and the future.
Presented by Marina Elisara and Hannah Cleaver-Marshall
Limited tickets – you must purchase below to attend.

💜💚💙

MORE ABOUT YOUR SPEAKERS:
Marina Elisara
BHSc(OT), PGCertProSup, PGCertHSc, PGDipCBT
Primary Mental Health Occupational Therapist
Although I have been working as a Mental Health Occupational Therapist since 2005, I have worked independently since 2021, receiving referrals for mild to moderate anxiety and depression from GP practices. Among the variety of people referred, are parents experiencing low mood or being on-edge with the changes related to bringing a new baby into the world. Occupational Therapists are also trained in neuroscience and have health models to encompass a broad range of knowledge. I found that this makes it easier to consider the effects of late diagnosed neurodevelopment conditions on mental well-being and find methods and approaches that clients respond to.
Hannah Cleaver-Marshall BSocSci
As a (late-diagnosed) AuDHD woman, raising Neurodivergent children (combinations of ADHD, ASD, Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, APD) I am deeply passionate about accessibility of knowledge, support and advocacy. The transition into motherhood is never simple, but for me, the perinatal journey was especially intense. I am a mother of five (I gave birth to four of my children), and while I look back with love on those early years, I also remember the enormous challenges I faced, challenges that I didn’t fully understand at the time. These experiences are what sparked my deep interest in perinatal neurodiversity.
I completed my BSocSci (Psychology & Sociology) as a young single mother I entered the workforce at the Ministry of Social Development, after several other roles and gaining a Diploma in Health Science (Naturopathy), now in my mid 30s I have decided to enter back into postgraduate study. I am currently completing my PGDipArts (Psychology) at Massey, I will be begin my masters thesis in 2026 titled ‘Motherhood and Neurodiversity: Exploring the Role of Diagnosis and Knowledge in Shaping the Experiences of Mothers with ADHD and ASD’.

Tama'ita'i Toa - Friday 17 October | Dunedin - Ōtepoti
2025-10-17 09:00 - 15:00 (Pacific/Auckland) | Pacific Trust Otago (PTO), 16 McBride Street, South Dunedin, Dunedin, South Island, 9012, New Zealand
Tama’ita’i Toa workshop is designed for anyone working alongside Pacific whānau, in health, mental health, social services, education, or community roles. No prior clinical knowledge is required just a willingness to listen, learn, and serve with empathy.
Delivered by Teine/Tama’ita’i/Wahine who work directly with aiga and māmā in the community, this workshop brings together lived experience, clinical insight, and cultural knowledge to create a safe space for learning, reflection, and Talanoa.
What you will experience:
· A foundational understanding of perinatal mental health disorders and how they can impact Pacific women and families
· Insights into how colonisation, migration, and disconnection from culture impact perinatal wellbeing
· Practical tools to provide culturally safe, holistic, and respectful care
· Focused on perinatal mental health, trauma-informed care, and whanau-centred support
Tama’ita’i Toa will deepen your understanding of how culture, identity, and colonisation shape perinatal experiences for Pacific and Māori whānau. Learn to walk alongside families with cultural safety, humility, and empathy.
Join us in nurturing the Toa within every Tama’ita’i and strengthening the support around her.

PADA Cultural Series - Cultural Competency | 12 November 2025 - Christchurch | Ōtautahi
2025-11-12 09:00 - 15:30 (Pacific/Auckland) | Raupō Room at Papa Hou, 4 Rolleston Avenue, Christchurch, Christchurch, 8013, New Zealand
PERINATAL EDUCATION OPPORTUNITY
Focus: Cultural Competency – Cultural awareness seminar for people working in pregnancy, childbirth, and early parenthood.

These seminars provide professional development for healthcare providers supporting families affected by perinatal distress related to pregnancy, childbirth, and early parenthood. When participants leave each seminar, they will better understand how these topics impact families, and strengthen their knowledge and skills to help improve perinatal outcomes.
Midwives can attract Continuing Education Hours
💜💚💙
🎙 CONFIRMED SPEAKERS:
🔹 Jo Teina – Manaakitanga – The Act of Caring – PADA Educator Māori/Kaumātua
🔹 Dr Nimisha Waller – Auckland University of Technology – Senior Lecturer Midwifery
🔹 Dr Vartika Sharma – Senior Lecturer & Research Fellow – Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences – University of Auckland
🔹 Cara Meredith – Registered Nurse and Midwife – Team Lead for Whānau Whakapuāwai, a Kaupapa Māori perinatal mental health service offered out of Te Puawaitanga ki Ōtautahi Trust.
🔹 Christina Daly – Lived Experience – Pou Tautoko for Whānau Whakapuāwai
We will be joined by the following organisations to share about their services:
💜 Asian Family Services
💚 Tangata Atumotu Trust – Whānau Ora
💙 Te Puawaitanga ki Ōtautahi – Whānau Ora
Tickets are limited – purchase tickets below ⬇️
PADA Members/Full-time Students $100
General Admission $125
💜💚💙
Thank you to our funders The Tindall Foundation, The Kind Foundation, and Rātā Foundation for helping to make this seminar possible.
For any queries, please email admin@pada.nz.

Tama'ita'i Toa - Friday 21 November 2025 | Tāmaki Makaurau - Auckland
2025-11-21 09:00 - 15:00 (Pacific/Auckland) | Eden Garden, 24 Omana Avenue, Epsom, Auckland, 1023, New Zealand
Tama’ita’i Toa workshop is designed for anyone working alongside Pacific whānau, in health, mental health, social services, education, or community roles. No prior clinical knowledge is required just a willingness to listen, learn, and serve with empathy.
Delivered by Teine/Tama’ita’i/Wahine who work directly with aiga and māmā in the community, this workshop brings together lived experience, clinical insight, and cultural knowledge to create a safe space for learning, reflection, and Talanoa.
What you will experience:
· A foundational understanding of perinatal mental health disorders and how they can impact Pacific women and families
· Insights into how colonisation, migration, and disconnection from culture impact perinatal wellbeing
· Practical tools to provide culturally safe, holistic, and respectful care
· Focused on perinatal mental health, trauma-informed care, and whanau-centred support
Tama’ita’i Toa will deepen your understanding of how culture, identity, and colonisation shape perinatal experiences for Pacific and Māori whānau. Learn to walk alongside families with cultural safety, humility, and empathy.
Join us in nurturing the Toa within every Tama’ita’i and strengthening the support around her.

Thanks to MAS Foundation – we are offering 10 FREE sponsored tickets. First in, first served.
Once these tickets have been bought, tickets are the usual price of $40 for PADA Members or $50 for General Admission.
Venue: The Gallery Room, Eden Garden, 24 Omana Ave, Epsom, Auckland
For more information, please contact Jasmine at pasifikaeducator@pada.nz
*This workshop has been postponed from Friday 24 October to the new date of Friday 21 November.

ONLINE | Provider Connection Hui - Monday 8 December 2025
2025-12-08 09:30 - 11:00 (Pacific/Auckland) | Online – Zoom link will be emailed to you
Join us for the next provider online session.

🟪 Following the Parliamentary event we need to review the proposal for the Cross-Party Suicide Prevention Group, we will be providing a full update of PADA’s work since the event and creating space for networking and discussion.

🟦 We will be issuing formal invitations once again to the Minister for Mental Health, Matt Doocey, and to Ingrid Leary.

🟩 A full agenda will be circulated shortly.

The Zoom link will be sent 24 hours prior to the session to all registered attendees – please RSVP below.

ONLINE | Provider Connection Hui - Monday 9 February 2026
2026-02-09 09:30 - 11:00 (Pacific/Auckland) | Online – Zoom link will be emailed to you
Perinatal Mental Health Sector Hui
Focus: Strategic Communications & Public Narrative to Support the Cross-Party Suicide Prevention Briefing
Host: Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Aotearoa (PADA)
Date: 9 February 2026
Time: 9.30am -11.00am
Location: Zoom
AGENDA
Karakia & Whakawhanaungatanga
Purpose & Desired Outcomes
Brief Progress Update Since Last Hui
Draft Briefing Cross-Party Suicide Prevention Briefing: Final Sense Check
Strategic Communications & Public Narrative (special guest speaker)
Defining the Shared Narrative
Storytelling: Ethics, Consent & Cultural Safety (special guest speaker)
Closing Reflections & Karakia

PADA Rainbow Series | Takatāpui - Monday 23 February 2026 - Ōtautahi | Christchurch
2026-02-23 09:00 - 15:30 (Pacific/Auckland) | Raupō Room at Papa Hou, 4 Rolleston Avenue, Christchurch, Christchurch, 8013, New Zealand
These seminars provide professional development for healthcare providers supporting families affected by perinatal distress related to pregnancy, childbirth and early parenthood.
Join us at the TAKATĀPUI seminar for our PADA Rainbow Series to explore how we can co-create a maternity system that honours the diverse journeys of Takatāpui and Rainbow parents. Together, we can ensure every whānau feels valued, seen, and supported.
Takatāpui individuals and Rainbow communities deserve a maternity system that recognises their mana and supports their journey to build their whānau. Research shows that at least 20% of trans individuals aspire to have tamariki (Trans Pregnancy Care Project), and this number is bound to grow when care becomes genuinely inclusive, culturally responsive, and mana-enhancing.
Midwives can attract Continuing Education Hours.
CONFIRMED SPEAKERS:
Professor Elizabeth Kerekere (she/her/ia)
Scout Barbour-Evans (they/them)
Natalie Allen (she/he/they) and Tash Wharerau
Ngā mihi to Rāta Foundation, The Tindall Foundation, and The Kind Foundation for their financial support towards this seminar. We could not do it without you!

Spaces are limited, you must register below to attend.
REGISTRATION OPTIONS
General Admission/Non-Member: $125
PADA Members/Full-time Students: $100
For any queries, please email admin@pada.nz
