A Māori worldview describes the immune system as a guardian – this could improve public health in Aotearoa NZ
- Written by Tama Te Puea Braithwaite-Westoby, Tautoro Māori Engagement Advisor, Malaghan Institute of Medical Research

In biomedical science, the immune system is described as a cellular defence network that identifies and neutralises threats. In te ao Māori (the Māori worldview), it can be seen as a dynamic system of guardianship, known as te pūnaha awhikiri.
For Māori, wellbeing is relational and interconnected. It encompasses...