What is Rongoā?

Rongoā is the traditional Māori system of healing, deeply rooted in Aotearoa’s natural world and spiritual beliefs. It encompasses a holistic approach to health and well-being, drawing on the wisdom of tūpuna and the connection between people, the land, and the wairua.

Key Aspects of Rongoā

• Rongoā Rākau (Herbal Medicine) – Using native plants such as kawakawa, harakeke, and mānuka for healing purposes. These plants are carefully harvested following tikanga to ensure their mauri remains intact.
• Mirimiri & Romiromi (Bodywork & Massage) – Traditional healing touch therapies that focus on balancing energy, relieving pain, and supporting overall well-being.
• Karakia (Spiritual Healing & Prayers) – Sacred incantations that align the mind, body, and spirit, often used alongside other healing practices.
• Whakapapa & Connection – Understanding health within the context of whakapapa and one’s relationship to their ancestors, whenua, and whānau.

The Philosophy Behind Rongoā

Rongoā is based on a holistic worldview where health is not just about treating symptoms but about restoring balance—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. It acknowledges the interconnectedness of all things and the importance of living harmoniously with the environment.

Most sessions Include

• Takutakau: A sacred incantation to open the space, clear energy, and set the intention for your healing journey. This connects us to the  wairua (spiritual realm) and the wisdom of our tipuna (ancestors)
• Whakawhi: A korero or conversation to understand your needs and what has brought you here. Together, we’ll explore what’s happening in your tinana, hinengaro, and wairua.
• Mirimiri: Gentle, intentional form of bodywork that works with your body’s natural energy flow to release blockages, ease tension, and restore balance. This process is deeply relaxing and grounding.
• RomiRomi: A deeper, more intense form of bodywork, combining pressure points, manipulation, and muscle energy work to address deep-seated imbalances and realign the body, mind, and spirit.
• Mahi a whenua: Physical techniques focusing on the bones and deeper structures, encouraging movement and alignment within the body’s foundation to support holistic wellness.
• Homework:  Personalised practices, rituals, or exercises to support your ongoing journey. These might include traditional Mãori practices, specific movements, or activities to enhance your connection with nature and your wairua.

Funded Rongoā Appointments (ACC & Tuwharetoa Health)

ACC Sessions – Free

Prior approval from both ACC and Mitch Leathem is required to use this booking option.

If you have a current ACC Claim for an injury, birthing injury or sensitive claim, you can request Rongoa Maori as part of your rehabilitation. Request this through the ACC recovery team member who’s managing your claim, or contact ACC:

• Phone 0800 101 996
• Email [email protected]

Let ACC know you have an active injury claim and would like to seek Rongoa as your form of funded rehabilitation.

Then share my clinic details with ACC:
Whai Ora Rongoa Clinic
Clinic Vendor ID: VBB949
Practitioner Details: Mitch Leathem
Clinic Address: Shop 10, Turangi Town Centre, Turangi, 3334

For any patai – please contact Mitch at [email protected] or 021510518

Tuwharetoa Health Sessions – FREE

These sessions are fully funded by Tuwharetoa Health. There is a limited number of bookings available each month. Please ensure you have contacted Mitch prior to booking, or your booking may be declined/cancelled.

Regular sessions

• 60 minutes – $125
• 30 minutes – $65

Hapūtanga Sessions

• $150