In this review I will show the connection between diabetes, stress and barriers to care and the impact these have on Maori who have type 2 diabetes. I have undertaken an extensive literature review, which focused mainly on indigenous peoples, and more specifically on Maori. I explored the connection between all the factors involved and combined these with reflections from my own clinical practice experience. My conclusion will show that stress, diet, exercise and barriers to care place a heavy burden on the lives of Maori who live in Aotearoa/New Zealand, suffering from the dis-ease of diabetes. By empowering them to face their situation and see this from a wellness rather than an illness perspective, they can take control of their diabetes and so will live a healthy, longer life, ensuring quality time with their mokopuna/grandchildren.