Pēpi Pack

Established in 2015, the Pēpi Pack initiative was developed by Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu as an approach to whānau ora and tamariki ora. The packs are a way to connect pēpi (babies) with Ngāi Tahu from birth and help them to grow a strong cultural connection to the iwi. The initiative supports Ngāi Tahu whānau during pregnancy and the first year of their child's life by providing a pack of culturally significant items. The program has been modified over time, with changes to the contents while maintaining the core mission of connecting newborns to their iwi heritage. The Pēpi Pack is part of a broader commitment to whānau wellbeing and cultural continuity for Ngāi Tahu families.