Aug 2015: Heeni explains that she wrote "The Tree of Life" because she wanted to help whānau who were in the same devesting position as her. She hopes that other whānau will benefit in some way by her story of grief and loss.
Joining Heeni is her father a well-respected kaumatua and leader, Te Ariki Morehu and her husband Taupe Pou Poasa. Both provide perspectives from a grandparent and that of a father.
"It difficult for us men, when we lose a child, we don't know how to act or feel", says Taupe and his goal is to provide some tools that will allow dads to cope with their loss.
Launch Details
The following will be held over 3 days and is open to all including:
- Whānau and families bereaved by suicide
- Staff of community organisations who support people with a range of needs
- Researchers
- Planners and funders of clinical and social services
- Mental health services and professionals
- Iwi and hapu leaders
- Social workers and counsellors
- Any individuals with an interest in suicide prevention
Tuesday 8th September
- 10am-12pm Maketū Fishermans Club, 461 Wilsons Road, Maketū
- 2pm-4pm Rotorua Lakes Council Chambers, 1061 Haupapa Street, Rotorua
- 6pm-8pm Pounamunui Marae, 97 Whangamoa Drive, Okere Falls, Rotorua
Wednesday 9th September
- 6.30pm-8.30pm Reporoa Village Community Hall, Reporoa
Thursday 10th September
- 10am-12pm Te Kahukura o Tane Mahuta Whare, Kaimanawa Street, Taupō
- 6pm-8pm Senior Citizens Hall, Ohuanga Road, Tūrangi
Contact Information
- Te Runanga o Ngāti Pikiao
- Te Pae Fitzell, Kia Piki te Ora Project Leader
- tfitzell@pikiaorunanga.org.nz
- The Tree of Life by Heeni Morehu Facebook page
These events are generously supported by: Te Runanga o Ngati Pikiao Trust, Te Waiariki Purea Trust, ARC Counselling Services, Maketu Hauora & Social Services, Treasure Rotorua, Ngati Tahu – Ngati Whaoa Runanga Trust & the Whanau Bereaved by Suicide Support Group.