The practices of three Māori health service providers in the prevention of chronic conditions in Māori were investigated in a three-phase research project using Kaupapa Māori methodology and an instrumental case study design. The research phases included interviews with seven participants in two small groups, individual interviews with 44 key informants and in-depth investigation of prevention practices in a prevention case study for each Māori health service provider. Each provider found it challenging to achieve well-being through health service delivery in the state-funded and contract-defined environment. The research identified high levels of acute need in the provider communities requiring increased resources and a broader health services response to prioritise prevention.