The National Collective of Iwi Maori Social Services has been told a lack of a long-term strategy is hindering progress in volatile communities.
Representatives from 154 iwi providers have been meeting in Wellington.
The Eastern Bay of Plenty's Ngati Awa Social and Health Services chief executive, Enid Ratahi-Pryor, says it is very difficult for social workers without a long-term plan.
She says apart from Whanau Ora, there is no long-term government commitment that will enable Maori providers to build their capacity five to 10 years into the future.
