Abstract
This research sought to document and understand the experiences of the Ōmāhu Māori community in the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle that took place in Aotearoa, New Zealand. Two research questions (RQ1 and RQ2) were addressed using a sample of 10 local residents (Ahi Kā) who took part in a focus group discussion. The first (RQ1) question examined community members’ accounts of their experiences during Cyclone Gabrielle. The second question (RQ2), building on the first, assessed the insights these accounts provided about coping with natural disasters. Thematic analysis identified five broad themes (geographical and social isolation; the importance of community and group belonging; cultural practices and the role of marae; leadership, initiative, and inclusivity; and resilience and positive outlook). The results suggest that belonging, cultural interventions, and the support provided by the Marae boosted the morale and psychological well-being of the Ōmāhu community. The Marae's role as a physical and emotional sanctuary was crucial in fostering resilience, providing a space for cultural continuity, and facilitating collective healing and unity. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the psychological effects of natural disasters on communities and highlight the significance of traditional cultural spaces in the recovery process.