Across Te Tai Tokerau, Māori business owners are building more than businesses. They are restoring balance, strengthening whānau, and creating futures grounded in whakapapa, purpose, and mana.

For Jacqui O’Connor, founder of Heart Place Hospital, the journey began with a deep personal and professional realisation about the kind of care and healing the world truly needs.

“I saw a space for change and knew, I am the change. I can’t wait for it.”

Heart Place Hospital was created as a place to heal the heart, spirit, and body. A space that nurtures people with love, guided by kaupapa Māori and a belief that wellbeing must honour the whole person.

Like many pakihi Māori, the path forward has not always been easy. Choosing to step away from the status quo often comes with challenge.

“I’ve faced many challenges along the way. Being misunderstood, judged, and even gaslit, all because I stepped away from what was familiar. But I stayed true to my knowledge, my heart, and my purpose.”

That perseverance has been key. Supported by a strong Board of Trustees and champions such as Dame Susan Devoy, Jacqui has continued to hold fast to the vision. Recognition has followed, including receiving the Kaipara Citizen Award and the Stella Collection being ranked 2nd in the Top 50 Over 50 in Aotearoa. But for Jacqui, success looks deeper than accolades.

“The real impact is keeping people in the roles they love, healing beyond clinical outcomes, and supporting others to create sustainable offerings for their communities.”

Heart Place Hospital is grounded in Te Wheke, the wellbeing model developed by Dr Rose Pere. Through principles such as whānau, wairuatanga, hinengaro, taha tinana, mauri, mana ake, hā a koro mā a kui mā, and whatumanawa, the focus remains on holistic wellbeing and collective strength.

“Our work ensures the wellbeing of the whole person, body, spirit, and heart, while supporting the community to be strong and sustainable.”

The impact ripples outward. By supporting sustainable health and education providers, Heart Place Hospital strengthens whānau, uplifts local businesses, and contributes to resilient, interconnected communities.

Looking ahead, the vision is bold and hopeful.

“My vision is sustainable health and education across Aotearoa and beyond. I hope for deeper understanding, celebration of who we are, and a society that values sovereignty, awareness, community, and unity.”

For Māori business owners walking their own journey, Jacqui offers this whakaaro.

“Stay true to your vision and values. Be patient through challenges, learn from mistakes, and seek support from your community and mentors. Remember, you are the change you want to see, and there’s no time to wait. Start now.”

Across Te Tai Tokerau, your ideas, your courage, and your kaupapa matter. Keep going. We are stronger when we move forward together.

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