The team included experts such as, Jenny Hantler, a seasoned theatre nurse with nearly three decades of experience, Dr Robert Martynoga, Specialist Anaethetist and Intensivist and Mr Simione Lolohea, Specialist General and Colorectal Surgeon of Tongan descent.  

Mr Lolohea highlighted the successes of the deployment. 

"We achieved our goals for this deployment, in that several complex surgeries were performed with surgeons in Tonga. We managed to set up brand new laparoscopic instruments such as cameras and other gears. We performed the first laparoscopic abdominal perineal resection in Tonga. We also were able to train the nursing and medical staff on using the laparoscopic gears.”  

Mr Lolohea also expressed his personal fulfilment in contributing to his homeland.  

"I am always humbled and privileged to be able to provide help and care to my people."  

Ms Hantler reflects on her experience with profound gratitude:  

"Up to 50 patients and staff benefitted from our time there. The most fulfilling aspect of this trip was the opportunity to share knowledge and experience. I was humbled and grateful for the opportunity given and would love to return.”   

This mission highlights the invaluable role of visiting medical teams in building capacity and strengthening local health services.   

It exemplifies the spirit of collaboration which is central to the delivery of the NZMTS programme.