Health Promotion Impact Evaluation: 'Healthy Messages Calendar (Te Maramataka Korero Hauora)' (Report‪)‬

Abstract A health promotion intervention, the 'Healthy Messages Calendar (Te Maramataka Korero Hauora)', was produced by the combined efforts of a number of community groups and provided free to every household in Tairawhiti. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the project to determine if it was an effective health promotion tool for the dissemination of health information. Qualitative data were obtained from five focus groups; four of which were selected cohorts in the community and one from the stakeholders or key players in the development of the calendar. Data were analysed using a general inductive approach as offered by Thomas (2004). Results indicated the calendar was a valuable health promotion tool that provided appropriate health information to the people of Tairawhiti. Focus group feedback showed an overwhelmingly positive community response to the calendar. Local production and use of children's artwork and Maori translations to promote messages ensured that the calendar was well received by the local community. The results highlighted the positive link between health promotion practices and the health needs of a local community.