Phyllis FitzgeraldKaiārahi / Navigator
Te Ara Tūhono -
Help Navigating ACC
Supporting whānau Māori to access ACC services with confidence, care, and trust.
What is Te Ara Tūhono?
Te Ara Tūhono is a Māori-led service providing free, independent, culturally responsive guidance on accessing ACC.
Historically, Māori have experienced higher injury rates yet lower engagement with ACC. Te Ara Tūhono was created to bridge that gap - helping whānau feel heard, safe, and confident when engaging with ACC, while understanding their entitlements and the support available.
Whanake Rangitāne o Manawatū Trust provides this service within the Manawatū region. Our approach is holistic, mana-enhancing, and grounded in whanaungatanga, rangatiratanga and tikanga Māori.
We're here to help whānau understand, navigate and access their ACC cover and entitlements - including treatment, social, vocational rehabilitation, and compensation - as well as related services provided by or on behalf of ACC.
We walk alongside you and your whānau - helping you understand your options, feel supported, and make informed choices throughout your ACC journey.
If you need help with ACC, reach out to us - we're here to help.
Contact us today:
Phone: 0800 942 6253 (0800 WHANAKE)
What is the role
of Te Ara Tūhono?
Supporting whānau to complete applications, explain processes, and provide a listening ear.
Ensuring whānau understand their rights, as outlined in the ACC Code of Claimants' Rights.
Providing options for health, social, or community supports when ACC services may not be the most suitable or effective pathway.
Informing ACC kiritaki/clients about available ACC-registered services and other providers that align with their hauora needs and goals.
What we can help with:
Support with an existing claim
Lodging a new claim
Reviewing a declined claim
Understanding the supports and services available through ACC.
Referrals to other providers that align with your hauora needs.
What we can't help with:
Providing legal representation or managing formal disputes with ACC.
Advocating on your behalf - our Navigators walk alongside you but do not speak for you.
Delivering therapeutic treatment or interventions - but we can help you access the right support.