Rights-based approaches to health in Aotearoa New Zealand have increased in recent years. However, dominant Westernised conceptualisations of rights have been criticised for their ties to colonialism and individualistic focus. This paper presents Oranga Mokopuna as an alternative which disrupts Western notions of rights that are assumed to have universal application. Based in Te Ao Māori, Oranga Mokopuna provides a conceptual frame of reference for the realisation of tāngata whenua rights to health and wellbeing.

This study was a three-part exploration of what indicates and contributes to positive development for Māori youth (rangatahi). First, a literature review was undertaken to identify relevant themes. Second, we analysed data from the Māori participants (N = 2,059) of a nationally representative youth survey (Youth’07). Third, we conducted focus groups and interviews with rangatahi (N