A greater depth of cultural understanding leading to enhanced wellness is the goal of an initiative launched at Whakatane Hospital.

A blessing ceremony saw the installation of two iPads which will explain the story of the hospital's cultural wall to patients, visitors and staff.

Bay of Plenty District Health Board (BOPDHB) Cultural Advisor Pouroto Ngaropo (left) with BOPDHB Digital Platform Manager Sally Llewellyn (right) at yesterday's blessing.

Part of Whakatane Hospital's Cultural Wall.

The cultural wall is a series of mural panels running the length of one corridor flanking the hospital's inner courtyard. That mural - In the now is the pathway of all time; Te Ara Tauwhāiti o Tāwhaki - was created by storyteller Pouroto Ngaropo and painted by artist Maree White. It describes the journey of the ancient ancestors, their knowledge and connection to the land, and the pathway to optimum wellbeing (hauroa).

Bay of Plenty District Health Board (BOPDHB) Director of Maori Health Services Amohaere Tangitu says the audio-visual experience offered through the iPads would give a greater sense of understanding.

'The cultural wall represents the story of our region and our connection with it. It is the history of our community. The fact it was created by a Māori storyteller and Pakeha artist working together is also reflective of our region. These iPads tell the story behind the art.

'Our community will be able to feel and connect with the story which in turn will assist with wellness and the healing process.

'The art is beautiful in and of itself but when you have the story behind it you achieve a greater depth of understanding. It is that depth of understanding which brings wellness. It brings a connectedness to our community into our hospital environment.”

One iPad is set to a standing position at one end of the corridor with another at wheelchair height at the opposite end. There is a set of instructions accompanying each for those not familiar with digital devices. The videos include subtitles throughout.

The entire story lasts 10 minutes but separate, one-minute digital panels have been created for those who do not have time to listen to it all. People can simply select which part of the art story they would like to listen to.