This evaluation found the barber wānanga achieves significant impact for the barbers who attend. Primarily decolonising in nature, the wānanga encourages men to reclaim a new traditional, indigenous approach to masculinity and collective care. By demonstrating vulnerability, compassion and acceptance, Matt and Sarah Brown and their highly skilled team create a safe environment where the barbers can openly share their trauma. During the wānanga connection, cohesion, compassion, acceptance and support provides a pathway to healing.

The healing and learning experienced by the barbers leads to a range of behavioural changes. The changes highlighted by barbers are supported by the views of whānau and friends who reinforce the view that positive changes have occurred. Making positive changes in their own lives, in particular in their relationships, enables the barbers to replicate the safe space they experienced in the wānanga. This enables them to have a positive influence with the clients who sit in their chairs.

Reclaiming a new way of being based on traditional indigenous masculinity and models of collective care requires on-going support. A number of opportunities have been identified for consideration that have the potential to grow and develop the kaupapa, increasing its influence and impact. (From the website). Record #7350