Aotearoa, New Zealand and Polynesia

New Zealand, located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, consists of the North and South Islands and about 600 smaller islands. Most of its population, including the indigenous Māori, live on the North Island in urban areas.  

The first branch of Mothers’ Union to be founded outside of England was established in Christchurch, New Zealand, in 1886. Since then, many MU branches have been created, and the movement has spread across the country. 

As part of the three Tikanga Church (Māori, Polynesia, and Pākehā), members support communities through initiatives such as helping teenage mothers, supporting bereaved children, raising awareness of child abuse, and providing gifts and comfort items for children in need.