This paper addresses two objectives; first, to explore whether the concept of resilience, as described in the international literature, has resonance in the New Zealand Indigenous context; and second, to discuss the link between the concept of resilience and the Māori concept of whānau ora. The paper draws on findings from a qualitative study that utilised a single case study design. Data collection methods for the full study included a comprehensive literature review, organisational document review, conceptual framework development, in-depth key informant interviews and sequential focus groups with health service consumers.

In New Zealand, Māori are entitled to the same level of well- being experienced by non- Māori citizens. However, disparities between the two populations are evident. In 2010, a new public policy approach to health and social service delivery was announced: one underpinned by Māori values, and which ostensibly provided the Crown with another mechanism to reduce health and social well- being disparities. The whānau (family) centred approach seeks to achieve the goal of “whānau- ora” (well- being of the extended family) and requires health services to work across traditional sector boundaries to improve client health.