Experiences of Māori After Stroke in Regional Aotearoa New Zealand: A Qualitative Study Informing Culturally Responsive Stroke Services

Māori experience stroke at higher rates, face inequities in care and have poorer outcomes than non‐Māori in Aotearoa New Zealand. Guided by Kaupapa Māori research principles, this qualitative study explored Māori experiences of stroke and stroke services in two rural regions, Tairāwhiti and Wairarapa, and potential areas for improvement in stroke services. Data were gathered through focus groups and individual interviews with Māori who had experience of stroke and their whānau. Transcripts were analysed using an Interpretive Description approach. Findings revealed both region‐specific and cross‐regionally shared themes. In Tairāwhiti, participants emphasised the need for timely diagnosis and culturally grounded stroke knowledge and prevention, with messaging tailored to communities and frontline health providers. In Wairarapa, participants highlighted the importance of culturally safe inpatient care and integration of te ao Māori and mātauranga Māori within stroke and rehabilitation services. Across both regions, participants emphasised the importance of understanding what happened during diagnosis and ensuring that communication supports Māori whānau during recovery and their return home. This research informed the co‐development of two locally led, culturally relevant stroke interventions reflecting the needs and aspirations of these Māori communities.