Search this site

Connect With Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki is growing through listening, learning, and community connection. If you would like to learn more about this initiative, share your experiences, or explore future support opportunities, you are warmly welcome to reach out. Contact Us We'd love to hear from you. Send us a message and we'll respond as soon as possible. First name Last name Email* How can we help you?* Select a topic Message* Email Submit Send a Message If you would like to connect, please complete the form below and I will respond as soon as possible. You may also connect directly via email info@caringspirits.com.au Please note that Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki offers guidance, connection, and community support for carers. For urgent medical or clinical advice, please contact a health professional or appropriate support service. Thank you for visiting Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki and for being part of a community that honours carers and elders.

Growing Gently New workshops, resources, and community gatherings are currently being developed for carers navigating the dementia journey. Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki grows through listening to carers and honouring culture, community, and lived experience. Please check back as this work continues to grow.

How I Can Support You Caring for someone living with dementia can be both meaningful and deeply challenging. Many carers walk this path feeling uncertain, overwhelmed, or unsure where to find guidance that respects their values and cultural identity. Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki offers gentle support, learning opportunities, and community connection for carers navigating the dementia journey. This work is guided by lived experience, cultural respect, and the belief that carers should not walk this journey alone. Who This Support is For Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki is intended to support carers and family members who are walking alongside someone living with dementia. You may find this space helpful if you are: • Caring for a loved one living with dementia • Feeling uncertain about how dementia is changing your relationship • Looking for guidance that respects culture, identity, and family values • Seeking connection with others who understand the caring journey • Wanting to learn more about dementia and ways to support wellbeing Carers at every stage of the journey are welcome. Areas of Support Carer Support Conversations Carers sometimes need space to talk, reflect, and share their experiences with someone who understands the complexities of dementia care. These conversations offer a supportive space to explore challenges, ask questions, and reflect on your caring journey in a respectful and non-judgemental environment. Workshops and learning opportunities will be introduced gradually to support carers in understanding dementia, strengthening wellbeing, and sharing knowledge within a supportive community setting. These sessions aim to combine lived experience, cultural understanding, and practical knowledge that supports carers in everyday situations. Workshops and Learning Circles Cultural and Community Connection For many families, caring takes place within the context of culture, whānau (family), and community. Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki honours the importance of cultural identity and community relationships in supporting both carers and elders. Support opportunities and workshops are being introduced gradually as Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki grows through listening, learning, and community connection. Future offerings will develop in response to carers’ needs and the relationships formed within the community. How Services Are Developing If you would like to learn more about Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki or stay connected as this work grows, you are warmly welcome to reach out through the Contact page.

About Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki grew from lived experience, cultural connection, and a deep belief that carers deserve to feel seen, supported, and understood. This space is being created as a place of learning, listening, and community, where carers and whānau can find support that honours both culture and personhood. Meet The Founder Hinemoana Harding Founder - Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki Walking alongside carers, honouring Elders, and strengthening spirit through culturally safe dementia support. Informed by lived experience as a dementia carer and academic study in dementia care and social ecology. My journey into dementia care did not begin in a classroom — it began at home. When my mother was diagnosed with dementia, I stepped into a role I had not anticipated: daughter, advocate, learner, and carer. Like many families, we initially mistook the early changes for normal ageing. Yet even before her diagnosis, Mum sensed something was shifting. She described her memory changes with the words hoha wareware, expressing both frustration and humour. Caring for Mum opened my eyes to the complexity of dementia, not only medically, but culturally and relationally. I witnessed how identity, dignity, and spirit are just as important as clinical understanding. This experience led me to deepen my knowledge through formal study in dementia care and ageing support, confirming what I had already come to understand: dementia is experienced differently by every person and every family, and cultural context shapes how care is understood and given. My Journey Walking alongside Mum — the beginning of a deeper understanding. As I navigated this journey, I chose to deepen my knowledge through formal study in dementia care and ageing support. What I learned confirmed what I had already felt: Dementia is experienced differently by every person and every family, and cultural context shapes how care is understood and given. Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki grew from this lived experience, a desire to create spaces where carers feel supported, where Elders are honoured, and where cultural knowledge and clinical understanding can sit respectfully alongside one another. From these experiences, Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki began to take shape, not as a business idea, but as a response to what I had witnessed and learned. It grew from a desire to ensure that carers, particularly within Indigenous and culturally diverse communities, feel supported in ways that honour both knowledge and spirit. Our Purpose Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki exists to support carers of people living with dementia through culturally grounded education, connection, and wellbeing practices that honour Elders, families, and community knowledge. The Heart of This Work This initiative is shaped by listening, learning, and community connection. Living These Values These values are not simply guiding words — they have shaped my own caring journey and continue to guide how this work grows. Whanaungatanga Connection & belonging Connection and belonging have been central to my caring journey. Whanaungatanga reminds us that no one should walk this path alone, and that care is held within relationship. Manaakitanga Caring for my mother taught me the depth of dignity and respect within care. Manaakitanga calls us to honour the mana of elders and carers alike. Care & Respect Wairuatanga Spiritual Wellbeing The caring journey touches the spirit as much as the body. Wairuatanga holds space for reflection, meaning, and steadiness within change. Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which this work takes place across Australia and pays deep respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present, and emerging. We honour their enduring connection to Country, culture, community, and storytelling. This work is also grounded in Māori values of manaakitanga (care and hospitality), whanaungatanga (relationship and belonging), and wairuatanga (spiritual wellbeing), reflecting my own cultural heritage and guiding how this initiative walks alongside carers and whānau with respect and humility. Cultural Acknowledgement Care happens within culture, whānau, and community — not in isolation. Every caring journey is unique, and support should honour people’s values, identity, and lived realities. Rather than offering one-size-fits-all solutions, this work grows slowly and thoughtfully in response to carers’ voices. A Guiding Thought Whaia te iti kahurangi, ki te tuohu koe me he maunga teitei. Aim for what is truly valuable; if you must bow, let it be to a mountain of great importance.

Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki A gentle space for carers walking alongside loved ones living with dementia. 'You are not walking this journey alone' Learn More Who This Is For Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki is a carer-led initiative shaped by lived experience, cultural respect, and community connection. This work grows from a desire to support carers with understanding, compassion, and culturally safe guidance. Honouring Elders, Supporting Carers & Strengthening Spirits Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki is for: Carers supporting a loved one living with dementia Whānau and families navigating care systems and cultural responsibilities Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander carers and culturally diverse communities seeking culturally safe support Organisations committed to strengthening inclusive dementia care practices Our Shared Values of Wellbeing & Connection Whanaungatanga Connection & belonging Nurturing deep connection through shared stories and spiritual belonging, ensuring we walk this journey together. Manaakitanga Showing care and respect for elders and carers, honouring the dignity and mana of each person in our community. Care & Respect Wairuatanga Spiritual Wellbeing Supporting the spirit through gentle guidance and reflection, and finding peace within compassionate care. Reflections Reflections from the caring journey are shared through my blog, Embrace Dementia Journey, where I write about lived experience, small moments, and lessons learned along the way. Latest Reflection: When Knowledge Meets Love A heartfelt reflection on learning about dementia while walking beside someone you love. If you would like to read more, you are warmly invited to visit the blog. Visit Embrace Dementia Journey Help Shape Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki is growing through listening, relationships, and community connection. We warmly invite carers, whānau, community members, and organisations to share their voices and experiences. SHARE YOUR VOICE NAU MAI WELCOME Connect Reaching out can take courage, especially in the caring journey. If you would like to connect, ask a question, or share a little about your experience, you are warmly welcome to do so here. Nau Mai Haere mai Hinemoana Email: info@caringspirits.com.au You are welcome to share as much or as little as you feel comfortable. Your message will be received with respect and care. This space is about connection, not obligation. With aroha and respect for every caring journey. Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country and honours Elders past, present, and emerging.

5 results found with an empty search Coming Soon | Caring Spirits Growing Gently New workshops, resources, and community gatherings are currently being developed for carers navigating the dementia journey. Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki grows through listening to carers and honouring culture, community, and lived experience. Please check back as this work continues to grow. About | Caring Spirits About Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki grew from lived experience, cultural connection, and a deep belief that carers deserve to feel seen, supported, and understood. This space is being created as a place of learning, listening, and community, where carers and whānau can find support that honours both culture and personhood. Meet The Founder Hinemoana Harding Founder - Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki Walking alongside carers, honouring Elders, and strengthening spirit through culturally safe dementia support. Informed by lived experience as a dementia carer and academic study in dementia care and social ecology. My journey into dementia care did not begin in a classroom — it began at home. When my mother was diagnosed with dementia, I stepped into a role I had not anticipated: daughter, advocate, learner, and carer. Like many families, we initially mistook the early changes for normal ageing. Yet even before her diagnosis, Mum sensed something was shifting. She described her memory changes with the words hoha wareware, expressing both frustration and humour. Caring for Mum opened my eyes to the complexity of dementia, not only medically, but culturally and relationally. I witnessed how identity, dignity, and spirit are just as important as clinical understanding. This experience led me to deepen my knowledge through formal study in dementia care and ageing support, confirming what I had already come to understand: dementia is experienced differently by every person and every family, and cultural context shapes how care is understood and given. My Journey Walking alongside Mum — the beginning of a deeper understanding. As I navigated this journey, I chose to deepen my knowledge through formal study in dementia care and ageing support. What I learned confirmed what I had already felt: Dementia is experienced differently by every person and every family, and cultural context shapes how care is understood and given. Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki grew from this lived experience, a desire to create spaces where carers feel supported, where Elders are honoured, and where cultural knowledge and clinical understanding can sit respectfully alongside one another. From these experiences, Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki began to take shape, not as a business idea, but as a response to what I had witnessed and learned. It grew from a desire to ensure that carers, particularly within Indigenous and culturally diverse communities, feel supported in ways that honour both knowledge and spirit. Our Purpose Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki exists to support carers of people living with dementia through culturally grounded education, connection, and wellbeing practices that honour Elders, families, and community knowledge. The Heart of This Work This initiative is shaped by listening, learning, and community connection. Living These Values These values are not simply guiding words — they have shaped my own caring journey and continue to guide how this work grows. Whanaungatanga Connection & belonging Connection and belonging have been central to my caring journey. Whanaungatanga reminds us that no one should walk this path alone, and that care is held within relationship. Manaakitanga Caring for my mother taught me the depth of dignity and respect within care. Manaakitanga calls us to honour the mana of elders and carers alike. Care & Respect Wairuatanga Spiritual Wellbeing The caring journey touches the spirit as much as the body. Wairuatanga holds space for reflection, meaning, and steadiness within change. Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which this work takes place across Australia and pays deep respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present, and emerging. We honour their enduring connection to Country, culture, community, and storytelling. This work is also grounded in Māori values of manaakitanga (care and hospitality), whanaungatanga (relationship and belonging), and wairuatanga (spiritual wellbeing), reflecting my own cultural heritage and guiding how this initiative walks alongside carers and whānau with respect and humility. Cultural Acknowledgement Care happens within culture, whānau, and community — not in isolation. Every caring journey is unique, and support should honour people’s values, identity, and lived realities. Rather than offering one-size-fits-all solutions, this work grows slowly and thoughtfully in response to carers’ voices. A Guiding Thought Whaia te iti kahurangi, ki te tuohu koe me he maunga teitei. Aim for what is truly valuable; if you must bow, let it be to a mountain of great importance. Support & Workshops | Caring Spirits How I Can Support You Caring for someone living with dementia can be both meaningful and deeply challenging. Many carers walk this path feeling uncertain, overwhelmed, or unsure where to find guidance that respects their values and cultural identity. Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki offers gentle support, learning opportunities, and community connection for carers navigating the dementia journey. This work is guided by lived experience, cultural respect, and the belief that carers should not walk this journey alone. Who This Support is For Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki is intended to support carers and family members who are walking alongside someone living with dementia. You may find this space helpful if you are: • Caring for a loved one living with dementia • Feeling uncertain about how dementia is changing your relationship • Looking for guidance that respects culture, identity, and family values • Seeking connection with others who understand the caring journey • Wanting to learn more about dementia and ways to support wellbeing Carers at every stage of the journey are welcome. Areas of Support Carer Support Conversations Carers sometimes need space to talk, reflect, and share their experiences with someone who understands the complexities of dementia care. These conversations offer a supportive space to explore challenges, ask questions, and reflect on your caring journey in a respectful and non-judgemental environment. Workshops and learning opportunities will be introduced gradually to support carers in understanding dementia, strengthening wellbeing, and sharing knowledge within a supportive community setting. These sessions aim to combine lived experience, cultural understanding, and practical knowledge that supports carers in everyday situations. Workshops and Learning Circles Cultural and Community Connection For many families, caring takes place within the context of culture, whānau (family), and community. Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki honours the importance of cultural identity and community relationships in supporting both carers and elders. Support opportunities and workshops are being introduced gradually as Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki grows through listening, learning, and community connection. Future offerings will develop in response to carers’ needs and the relationships formed within the community. How Services Are Developing If you would like to learn more about Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki or stay connected as this work grows, you are warmly welcome to reach out through the Contact page. Contact * | Caring Spirits Connect With Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki is growing through listening, learning, and community connection. If you would like to learn more about this initiative, share your experiences, or explore future support opportunities, you are warmly welcome to reach out. Contact Us We'd love to hear from you. Send us a message and we'll respond as soon as possible. First name Last name Email* How can we help you?* Select a topic Message* Email Submit Send a Message If you would like to connect, please complete the form below and I will respond as soon as possible. You may also connect directly via email info@caringspirits.com.au Please note that Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki offers guidance, connection, and community support for carers. For urgent medical or clinical advice, please contact a health professional or appropriate support service. Thank you for visiting Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki and for being part of a community that honours carers and elders. Welcome | Caring Spirits Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki A gentle space for carers walking alongside loved ones living with dementia. 'You are not walking this journey alone' Learn More Who This Is For Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki is a carer-led initiative shaped by lived experience, cultural respect, and community connection. This work grows from a desire to support carers with understanding, compassion, and culturally safe guidance. Honouring Elders, Supporting Carers & Strengthening Spirits Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki is for: Carers supporting a loved one living with dementia Whānau and families navigating care systems and cultural responsibilities Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander carers and culturally diverse communities seeking culturally safe support Organisations committed to strengthening inclusive dementia care practices Our Shared Values of Wellbeing & Connection Whanaungatanga Connection & belonging Nurturing deep connection through shared stories and spiritual belonging, ensuring we walk this journey together. Manaakitanga Showing care and respect for elders and carers, honouring the dignity and mana of each person in our community. Care & Respect Wairuatanga Spiritual Wellbeing Supporting the spirit through gentle guidance and reflection, and finding peace within compassionate care. Reflections Reflections from the caring journey are shared through my blog, Embrace Dementia Journey, where I write about lived experience, small moments, and lessons learned along the way. Latest Reflection: When Knowledge Meets Love A heartfelt reflection on learning about dementia while walking beside someone you love. If you would like to read more, you are warmly invited to visit the blog. Visit Embrace Dementia Journey Connect Reaching out can take courage, especially in the caring journey. If you would like to connect, ask a question, or share a little about your experience, you are warmly welcome to do so here. Nau Mai Haere mai Hinemoana Email: info@caringspirits.com.au You are welcome to share as much or as little as you feel comfortable. Your message will be received with respect and care. This space is about connection, not obligation. With aroha and respect for every caring journey. Caring Spirits & Wairua Manaaki acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country and honours Elders past, present, and emerging.