National Bereavement Triage and Coordination Service
Huarahi Ora – Pathway to Wellbeing
After a death by suspected suicide, many are left in the dark. Huarahi Ora exists to guide individuals and whānau through this early stage with care, compassion, and coordination, just as Tāne-nui-a-Rangi climbed through the layers of darkness to bring light, knowledge, and hope back to the world.
What Haurahi Ora Offers
Triage & Navigation
We do not provide direct crisis support or counselling . Instead, we assess what’s needed and connect people to the right services – cultural, clinical, or community-based.
All-of-Population, Culturally Grounded
Huarahi Ora is rooted in kaupapa Māori values but is for everyone in Aotearoa. Our care is inclusive, respectful, and safe across all cultures and communities.
Trusted Coordination
We partner with iwi, health services, community providers, and national agencies to ensure whānau receive timely, appropriate support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is this service for?
Anyone impacted by a suspected suicide, including immediate whānau, close friends, responders, and those who discovered the person.
How soon will someone contact us?
Within 72 hours of referral. If support is declined initially, we reconnect after 2-3 weeks.
What support is offered?
Emotional support, advocacy, practical assistance (e.g., ACC, repatriation), whānau hui facilitation, and up to 6 months of coordination.
Is this service only for Māori?
No – the service is inclusive of all people, grounded in kaupapa Māori values.
Do I need a referral to access this service?
Referrals generally come from agencies, but we consider self-referrals and alerts from trusted sources.
Is this a counselling or clinical service?
No – we triage and refer. We do not provide therapy but connect you to the right services.
Is there a cost for using Huarahi Ora?
No – the service is free.
Is my information kept private?
Yes – we follow the Privacy Act and gain consent before sharing.
Is this service available after hours?
Yes – after-hours support is available
