In June 2021, period products became free for all schools in Aotearoa who opted in. The initiative was hailed as a world first, and covered by international outlets, including The New York Times, the Guardian and the BBC. The Labour Government committed $25 million in funding over three years to launch the programme which set out on a mission to distribute at least a million period products to schools across the country. 

Image: Scott Webb (@scottwebb) | Unsplash Photo Community

This initiative was a crucial step towards addressing the challenges faced by students who lacked access to essential period products. Funding for the initiative is secured until June 2024, providing a critical window to make a lasting impact on the lives of students. 

However, with the recent change in government, the future beyond this period remains uncertain. Supporters of Ikura Manaakitia Te Whare Tangata, including The Period Place, are urging the new Coalition Government to recognise the importance of this programme and continue its funding to uphold its mission.

Named "Ikura Manaakitia Te Whare Tangata," the initiative doesn’t just provide free period products; it creates a cultural shift. The name itself holds significance, derived from the saying "Mai-i-kurawaka," which translates to "menstrual blood that comes from kurawaka," representing the sacred nature of menstruation. It aims to uphold, enshrine, and take care of the "whare tangata," or the house of humanity, recognising the uterus as a temple.

The programme operates on an opt-in basis, allowing schools and kura (Māori-language immersion schools) to choose to participate. Currently, an impressive 2,165 schools, kura, activity centers, and alternative education providers have joined, encompassing 97% of estimated menstruating students. This widespread participation is a testament to the programme's relevance and necessity in Aotearoa’s educational landscape.

Periods, a natural part of life, should not be a barrier to education or participation in sports. Research has shown that students may miss school due to difficulties in obtaining period products, highlighting the importance of initiatives like Ikura Manaakitia Te Whare Tangata. By providing free period products, the program aims to achieve several significant impacts:

• Reduce barriers to school attendance and sports involvement.

• Improve child and youth well-being.

• Alleviate financial strain on families.

• Promote positive gender norms and reduce stigma around menstruation.

 A Ministry of Education survey of participating schools carried out in 2023 showed that

• 71% reported whānau were benefiting from reduced expenses.

• 59% reported reduced stigma around periods.

• 45% said access to period products reduced barriers to attendance.

• 28% reported increased participation in sports.

• 49% reported improved student wellbeing.

  
  

Ikura Manaakitia Te Whare Tangata is more than just a programme—it's a movement towards equity, well-being, and education. It seeks to empower students, break down taboos surrounding menstruation, and restore mana (prestige) to a natural process. 

As Aotearoa navigates its educational landscape, it is crucial to prioritise initiatives like these that have the potential to shape a more inclusive and supportive environment for all students.

“This is something that benefits all children, whether they’re getting access to the products or not, because when kids are healthier, the classroom’s healthier, the community is healthier. ”

— Danika Revell, The Period Place co-founder and CEO