The largest Pacific health provider in Christchurch, Etu Pasifika, is continuing to see high demands from Pacific families for the Covid-19 vaccine. They will be running a vaccination drive for their Pacific community this weekend.

Collective responsibility between different organisations and Pacific providers is the thread that binds them together as Pacific communities continue to be the worst affected by New Zealand’s current Covid-19 Delta outbreak.

Pacific families continue to seek immediate support from the Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) through Pasifika Futures (PFL) – the Whānau Ora agency for Pacific families as the Covid-19 Delta outbreak continues to worsen and Alert Level 4 lock down is extended further.

As cases of the Covid-19 Delta variant virus continue to increase, the prioritization of Māori and Pacific for the Covid-19 vaccination is necessary and action needs to take place urgently, says Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) member Dr Collin Tukuitonga.

Etu Pasifika the largest Pacific health provider in Christchurch re-opened their Covid-19 vaccination centre last week and are experiencing a surge in bookings for the vaccine from Pacific families.

Te RōpÅ« Whakakaupapa Urutā have released a statement urging the New Zealand Government to prioritize Māori and Pacific communities in the Covid-19 vaccination roll out programme.

It is critical that during lockdown we follow the restrictions and hygiene protocols directed by the authorities, especially with the new mask mandate in place, says Dr Api Talemaitoga.

As we continue to live in this “New Norm” and adjust our lives to different Alert Levels, the Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) through Pasifika Futures (PFL) – the Whānau Ora agency for Pacific families – remains resolute and active in its support of Pacific families.

With the announcement of a snap lockdown at Alert Level 4 by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, people should feel reassured that the government is making the right decision, says Dr Collin Tukuitonga.

Pacific medical students who attended Pasifika Medical Association’s (PMA) fourth Pacific Health Leaders Webinar have said the speaker series has been a great support for them and has helped foster student relationships with the organisation.

The team at Etu Pasifika is urging more Pacific individuals and families to the clinic’s next vaccination drive set for Sunday 29 August 2021 and assures the community that the vaccination is safe, and the clinic is a safe environment to get the vaccine.

Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) President, Dr Tearikivao ‘Kiki’ Maoate (ONZM,FRACS) recently received the Tu Rangatira Health Award which honors individuals who have significantly contributed to improving the quality of life of Cook Islanders in the region.