A vital step towards improving intensive care across the Pacific was taken in Samoa, where frontline healthcare workers took part in a high-impact training course aimed at enhancing their ability to respond to critical and acute care needs. Delivered under the New Zealand Medical Treatment Scheme (NZMTS), the two-day Basic Assessment and Support in Intensive Care (BASIC) course reflects NZMTS’ ongoing commitment to building health workforce capacity in the region through targeted training, clinical upskilling, and system strengthening.

PMA Group Board Director, Sir Collin Tukuitonga, delivered his inaugural professorial lecture as a Professor at the University of Auckland, marking a significant milestone in a career dedicated to advancing Pacific health. His appointment also places him as one of two of the world’s only Niuean professors.

The New Zealand Medical Treatment Scheme (NZMTS) is dedicated to supporting champions for Pacific health - those who are committed to empowering vulnerable communities, including children and people living with disabilities, and upholding equal access to opportunities and resources.

The spirit of Moana Pasifika shone brightly as players, staff, families and supporters gathered to celebrate the 2025 Moana Pasifika Awards Night, an evening that honoured not only individual excellence, but also the shared pride and purpose that continues to power this movement forward.

The Pasifika Medical Association’s Medical Assistance Team (PACMAT) has officially been verified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a Type 1 Mobile Emergency Medical Team, an international recognition that confirms the team’s ability to deliver quality, timely healthcare in emergencies across the Pacific and Aotearoa.

The Pasifika Medical Association Medical Assistance Team (PACMAT) has achieved a major milestone, having successfully completed the World Health Organization’s Emergency Medical Team (EMT) verification process for Type 1 mobile teams. This recognition confirms that PACMAT meets the global standards outlined in the Classification and Minimum Standards for Emergency Medical Teams, a significant step that affirms the team’s capability to respond effectively and safely to emergencies across the Pacific region.

We would like to inform you that the Pasifika Medical Association Conference, originally planned for September 15-17, 2025, will now be held at a later date. This adjustment allows us to ensure the event continues to meet the high standards expected by our community.

The Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) Membership Services launched the first of its Pasifika Health Leaders Webinar Series this year, with an inspiring and insightful session led by Pacific health pioneer and PMA founding member, Suitafa Dr Debbie Ryan.

Under the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) funded Vanuatu Earthquake Recovery Support initiative, the Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) Group has been selected to implement a range of targeted interventions aimed at fostering long-term resilience and improving community wellbeing. This initiative will focus on extensive community outreach and psychoeducation activities, ensuring that individuals and families not only understand the importance of mental health but also have access to culturally appropriate coping strategies.

PMA Group & Moa­na Pasifika CEO Debbie Sorensen ONZM says that Super Rugby Pacific is in the midst of a genuine resurgence, and this time, the fans are coming along for the ride.

Jess Lagaluga Hutchings, one of two recipients of the inaugural Sir John Logan Campbell Medical Trust Fellowship Travel Grant, is embarking on an exciting journey to expand her research in health equity.

The first female chief executive of a New Zealand-based Super Rugby Pacific team says she doesn’t see herself staying at the helm of Moana Pasifika for long.