Abstract
This study aims to explore the impacts of COVID-19 on birthing for w & amacr;hine (women) and wh & amacr;nau (immediate and extended family) in Aotearoa (New Zealand) during the lockdowns of 2020 and 2021. This rangahau (research) provided wh & amacr;nau with an opportunity to share their whakawh & amacr;nau (birthing process) experiences via interviews. The data were analysed through interpretative phenomenological analysis. Themes identified in the results included the importance of wh & amacr;nau tautoko (family support), the experiences of isolation and trauma, and the effect of birthing under COVID-19 restrictions. Indigeneity was a core identity that was crucial to maintain, during these sacred times. Whakawh & amacr;nau is a pivotal transition with the potential to engage with medical services. The findings of this study contribute to the knowledge of wh & amacr;nau M & amacr;ori (M & amacr;ori [Indigenous peoples of New Zealand] families) experiences to enhance service provision.