Te Ara Oranga Taiao
THE PATHWAY TO WELLBEING WITH NATURE
Te Ara Oranga Taiao is a project that brings together people and organisations from across Aotearoa New Zealand to shape a future where our health, education and urban systems value and nurture the reciprocal relationship between people and the environment.
Together, we are working towards a future where tamariki and rangatahi grow up deeply connected to te taiao (the natural world), and where connection to te taiao fosters health and wellbeing for all.
Nau mai, haere mai!
Welcome to the website for the project ‘Te Ara Oranga Taiao’ - The Pathway to Wellbeing with Nature.
This strategic project launched in July 2025, funded by Sport New Zealand (Ihi Aotearoa), held by ĀTA (Adventure Therapy Aotearoa), and supported by AUT. We believe it has the potential to shape the future of Aotearoa.
Our vision is for an Aotearoa where time in nature and movement in the outdoors, in ways that are culturally relevant and meaningful, becomes a vital part of health and wellbeing for all: tāngata (people) and te taiao(the natural world).
We imagine a future where …
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Tamariki
cultivate a love for nature and being active in the outdoors from an early age through whānau and education systems. A lifelong connection with te taiao is established.
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Rangatahi
are supported to find nature spaces and outdoor activities that align with their identity and culture. Fostering their connection with te taiao through hapū, iwi, youth development programmes, education systems, recreation and sport opportunities.
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Tertiary Students
are introduced to theory and research demonstrating the integral role of connection between nature and people, for the health and well-being of both tāngata and te taiao.
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Health Systems
have connection with Te Taiao built throughout. From tertiary hospital design including green space for healing, to primary care and Green prescription including as much nature contact and movement outside as possible.
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Outdoor Therapeutic Approaches
are widely available to people seeking support. This includes ‘Walk and Talk’ counselling, rongoā, adventure therapy, eco-therapy, mātauranga Māori, animal-assisted therapy (e.g. equine therapy) and other options.
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Policy and Urban Design
Central and local government policy and urban design prioritise accessing and establishing green spaces for all.
Te Ara Oranga Taiao
The Pathway to Wellbeing with Nature
This purpose of this project is to bring together people across Aotearoa New Zealand who share a similar vision. Collectively we can develop this vision further, along with a plan on how to journey towards it.