National Hauora Coalition - Stellar supporter of mana taurite (equity) service delivery

Why is National Hauora Coalition sponsoring the primary healthcare awards? 

These awards are an opportunity to spotlight innovation, equity and impact in a space that often goes unseen. NHC is supporting these awards because our sector deserves to be seen, heard and honoured for the real difference it’s making. 

What is National Hauora Coalition’s key area of involvement in primary care? 

Our kaupapa has, and will always be, grounded in equity, ensuring Māori and Pacific communities have access to the care they deserve. Through digital enablement, kaupapa Māori approaches and commissioning pathways closer to whānau, we’re redesigning primary care to work with, not just for, communities. Primary care has a deeply personal and powerful impact.

What is it that interests you personally about the category National Hauora Coalition is sponsoring? 

Mana taurite speaks to our “why” — restoring balance, elevating kaupapa and driving change through tino rangatiratanga (self-determined success). What excites me most is the leadership this category represents: quiet, grounded, and driven by passion, aroha and the desire to make a difference. It’s the leadership I see every day in our communities, often without a title but making a real impact. That’s the leadership I believe in and proudly stand behind.

What do you hope this sponsorship will achieve for the entrants in this category? 

I hope it reminds them that their work matters and that they make a valuable contribution, that the energy they pour into creating culturally grounded, accessible care is seen, appreciated and needed. I also hope it builds momentum because we need more of these equity champions at the table, designing the future of primary care. 

What is a great experience you have had in primary care that you can share with us? 

One of my most powerful experiences in primary care has been seeing PHOs collaborate, despite competition, to ensure care continues for their communities. Even with uncertainty, whakawhanaungatanga (relationships and reciprocity) remains strong. I’ve also been part of marae based services where care is exchanged for baking or lawn mowing, offering creative solutions that meet whānau where they are. What moves me most is how collaboration and tautoko (support) remove barriers to access. It is mana whānau and whānau ora in practice. This approach, grounded in connection and shared purpose, is where true transformation happens.

There have been some tough times for primary care in recent times. How would you describe the sector in three words? 

Resilient through change.

If you were asked to name a popular song as the anthem for primary care, what would you choose? 

Unstoppable (Sia).  

The New Zealand Primary Healthcare Awards | He Tohu Mauri Ora is Aotearoa's premiere celebration of excellence in the field of primary healthcare. The awards honour the incredible contributions of our healthcare professionals in a wide range of categories. Category list available on www.nzphawards.co.nz/categories.