Whānau Māori are more likely to experience preterm birth than other ethnic population groups in Aotearoa. Our most recently reported (2021) national rate of preterm birth for whānau Māori was 8.9% (and only 7.3% for European and 7.0% for Asian whānau). Pēpi Māori who are born very preterm (under 28 weeks) are less likely to survive than European or Asian pēpi.

These differences are not due to being Māori, but are driven by systemic problems that affect Māori and impact on general health and wellbeing and access to consistent high-quality healthcare. They include the effects of colonisation and racism, income disparity, housing and food security, culture and language (non-English speaking or English as a second language). All of which may impact on opportunities to access care early in pregnancy, engage with care that meets cultural and wellbeing needs and feel welcome within the health service.

The Carosika Collaborative will not be able to overcome all the drivers of inequity in preterm birth care and outcomes, but we aim to focus our mahi on those groups most in need. Through our research it is clear that whānau Māori experience significant racism and disrespect in our healthcare system. Care that is whānau centred and based on whanaungatanga and manaakitanga will better meet the needs of whānau Māori.