The wahakura: a qualitative study of the flax bassinet as a sleep location for New Zealand Māori infants.

AIMS: The wahakura (flax bassinet) is presently being distributed as a safe infant sleeping device amongst New Zealand Māori, where sudden unexpected deaths in infancy (SUDI) rates are high. It is promoted as mitigating bedsharing risk by providing a separate infant sleeping surface. This study aimed to understand exactly what factors determine the apparent acceptability of the wahakura as an infant sleeping device to Māori mothers and other key Māori community stakeholders.

METHODS: The qualitative study used face-to-face, semi-structured interviews, following Māori cultural protocols, to explore the experiences and views of 12 Māori mothers and 10 key informants who had wahakura experience. We employed purposeful sampling of participants and thematic analysis of data.

RESULTS: The practical appeal of the wahakura related to its portability, the enabling of bedsharing and easier breastfeeding. Considerable cultural and spiritual appeal was related to its native flax composition and traditional origin. Health professionals found it useful to engage Māori women antenatally.

CONCLUSIONS: The study affirmed the acceptance of the wahakura as a culturally initiated endeavour, meaningfully engaging Māori mothers and families in SUDI risk mitigation. It has the potential to capitalise on the benefits of bedsharing to enhance infant wellbeing while also safeguarding them from harm.