The Niue community’s COVID-19 experiences: Development and application of the Matalili-Aga Gahua (Matalili Wellbeing Framework) to inform health initiatives
1
Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, Auckland University of Technology (AUT), Auckland, New Zealand
2
Monū Education and Social Services Trust, Auckland, New Zealand
Popul. Med. 2026;8(Supplement Supplement 1):
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
Pacific communities are extremely heterogeneous but are often aggregated in public health reports, which can obscure important social and health characteristics used to influence policy. Culturally tailored interventions are therefore crucial to address the unique health needs of Pacific communities. In this study, we introduce the Matalili-Aga Gahua (Matalili Wellbeing Framework), developed from stories and cultural knowledge shared by Niue elders about traditional practices that sustained their wellbeing. The Matalili Framework weaves together three inter-connected principles: Vahā Loto-Agaaga Ofania (Spirit of Care), Fakafetuiaga (Inclusive Relationship), and Fakamalolo (Empowerment).
METHODS:
The Matalili Framework was applied in a community-academic research partnership to explore the Niue community’s experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic in Aotearoa New Zealand. Using a mixed-method approach, we collected 380 survey responses and conducted 26 tala (narrative interviews).
RESULTS:
The participants highlight the importance of trust, relational care, and empowerment in shaping health decisions and maintaining resilience during the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings emphasise the need for community-led and community-based health initiatives that reflect Pacific values.
CONCLUSIONS:
This study demonstrates how an Indigenous framework can guide research and action that reflect community values. The community-academic approach provided a way for Niue voices to inform public health strategies for future crises and to promote equity and wellbeing for the Niue community as an integral part of Pacific communities in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Pacific communities are extremely heterogeneous but are often aggregated in public health reports, which can obscure important social and health characteristics used to influence policy. Culturally tailored interventions are therefore crucial to address the unique health needs of Pacific communities. In this study, we introduce the Matalili-Aga Gahua (Matalili Wellbeing Framework), developed from stories and cultural knowledge shared by Niue elders about traditional practices that sustained their wellbeing. The Matalili Framework weaves together three inter-connected principles: Vahā Loto-Agaaga Ofania (Spirit of Care), Fakafetuiaga (Inclusive Relationship), and Fakamalolo (Empowerment).
METHODS:
The Matalili Framework was applied in a community-academic research partnership to explore the Niue community’s experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic in Aotearoa New Zealand. Using a mixed-method approach, we collected 380 survey responses and conducted 26 tala (narrative interviews).
RESULTS:
The participants highlight the importance of trust, relational care, and empowerment in shaping health decisions and maintaining resilience during the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings emphasise the need for community-led and community-based health initiatives that reflect Pacific values.
CONCLUSIONS:
This study demonstrates how an Indigenous framework can guide research and action that reflect community values. The community-academic approach provided a way for Niue voices to inform public health strategies for future crises and to promote equity and wellbeing for the Niue community as an integral part of Pacific communities in Aotearoa New Zealand.
| eISSN: | 2654-1459 |
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