Outcomes are described from a study that explored Māori adolescents’ (taitamariki) opinions about the SPARX (Smart, Positive, Active, Realistic, X-factor thoughts) programme, a computerised intervention developed in New Zealand to treat mild-to-moderate depression in young people. The intervention engages users in a virtual 3D environment where they must complete missions to progress to the next level. Each level presents challenges and puzzles to complete. It was designed to appeal to all young people in New Zealand and incorporates several images and concepts that are specifically Māori. Six taitamariki participated in semi-structured interviews after they had completed work with the SPARX resource. They considered SPARX to be helpful. They viewed the Māori designs from the SPARX game as appropriate and useful, and they considered that having the ability to customise the SPARX characters with Māori designs was beneficial and this appeared to enhance cultural identity. These factors helped young people to feel engaged with SPARX which, in turn, helped them to learn relaxation and cognitive restructuring skills. Overall, using SPARX improved mood and increased levels of hope amongst the participants. There were some reports of SPARX being used by wider whānau members, with beneficial effects.
