A Lincoln University researcher says a growing number of Pakeha are being drawn into Maori social service providers in Christchurch.
Senior Maori lecturer Simon Lambert puts that down to the welcoming and inclusive nature of Maori organisations.
Dr Lambert is undertaking research with the Christchurch Maori mental health community (tangata whaiora), through the organisation Te Awa o Te Ora.
He says he's noticed that Pakeha are feeling more comfortable in a kaupapa Maori environment.
Dr Lambert says Maori are accepting of different people, and kaupapa Maori providers have had an important role to play for tangata whaiora since the earthquakes.