In recognition of Dietitians Week NZ, we share the story of Finau Taungapea, Director of Health Services and Senior Dietitian at Pacific Trust Otago. Finau’s journey into nutrition and health promotion is deeply personal, sparked by the sudden loss of her father and her commitment to breaking the cycle of poor health in her own family.

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.

Lilo Dr Oka Sanerivi, physiotherapist, academic, and PMA member, is the first Pacific PhD in Physiotherapy! 💥 For Men’s Health Week, he shares some light-hearted but practical insights, plus a bit of his own journey as a Pacific male in health. He is also a proud member of the Centre for Men’s Health at the University of Otago.

Talofa lava, meet Salima Dr Olataga Alofivae Doorbinnia who hails from Sa'anapu and Apolima. For Samoan Language Week, she shares her background as general practitioner living in Southwestern, Sydney.

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.

Noa’ia ‘e Mauri, ‘Otou asa le Rowena Sokimi, faiaksea gagaj atakoa. Meet Rowena Sokimi who is of Rotuman, Fijian, Samoan and German heritage.

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 Moana Pasifika Young Women’s Programme for high school girls kicked off today, with the vibrant energy of future leaders filling the room. The programme will run for three days and was opened with a special address from PMA Group and Moana Pasifika CEO, Debbie Sorensen ONZM.