Moving to Christchurch from Samoa with her family, mother-of-five Malia Fonoti was searching for places and communities that could help her settle into her new country.
She found that sense of home when she and her family enrolled with Etu Pasifika, the largest health care provider for Pacific families in the Canterbury area.
“Most of their staff are Pacific who speak our languages. They are always smiling and make me and my family feel comfortable. They not only help us when we are sick but also help us in other areas as well.”
Malia, whose five children range from ages 7 – 20, is excited that the Pacific health clinic is moving from Montreal Street into their new purpose-built premises on Tuam Street on Saturday.
“It means that they will have more space and newer facilities to cater to more Pacific families. That’s a good thing because the clinic has helped me and my family in so many ways.”
Established in 2016 with only 12 full time staff members, the organisation has continued to grow and now employs more than 34 staff who serve over 40 percent of the Pacific population (18,927) in the Canterbury region.
The 46-year-old says Etu Pasifika is more than just a health provider. The organisation has helped her transition smoothly into New Zealand society while giving her the confidence to retain her Samoan traditions.
“Our Pacific culture is really important to us, that’s what Etu Pasifika represents for me and my aiga.”
Fijian mother, Valerie Buadromo Nikasio and her family also use the services at Etu Pasifika. Valerie, her husband and 7-year-old son moved to Christchurch from Fiji two years ago and like Malia, she found the health organisation made her transition into New Zealand a pleasant experience.
“There is an atmosphere of family and home. It caters especially for the Pasifika people, where the staff understand and relate to you.”
She says their move to the new premises in central Christchurch will be beneficial for its families because there will be more parking and it will be close to public transport.
“Their growth must mean they are catering to the needs of Pacific families in Christchurch. It’s meeting that demand.”
Etu Pasifika general manager, Mr Amanaki Misa and his staff are preparing for their grand opening tomorrow, which will include cultural performances and a tour of their new Covid-19 Vaccination Centre. The opening will be attended by health and community leaders, Members of Parliament and the many families who Etu Pasifika serve.
“This will be a village with a purpose, which is around health and wellbeing for our Pacific families. It’s a village where we can cultivate, talanoa about our wellbeing and help our families to live healthier lifestyles.”
#pmafamily
Date: Friday 28 May 2021