02/09/2026
We were honoured to welcome the team from Manatū Hauora | Ministry of Health led by Mrs Merivi Agalelei, Chief Advisor Pacific, and senior leaders from the Pacific Team, Manager of the New Zealand Medical Assistance Team (NZMAT) and team members.
The visit provided a valuable opportunity to hear about the important work being undertaken nationally to improve health outcomes for Pacific communities, strengthen health system monitoring and equity, and ensure Pacific voices and priorities are reflected across policy and reporting in the health sector.
We also learned more about the vital role of NZMAT, New Zealand’s emergency health response team, which provides rapid medical assistance during national emergencies, disasters, and humanitarian events both in NZ and abroad. Their work helps ensure communities receive timely healthcare support when it is needed most.
We were equally proud to share the work Pacific Health Service Hutt Valley is delivering at the primary and community level to improve health and wellbeing for Pacific families and our wider communities.
A special point of pride for us is that three members of our nursing team have completed NZMAT training, developing the skills and capability to respond when Pacific communities need them most.
Partnerships like these remind us that strong health systems are built through collaboration, preparedness, and a shared commitment to serving people where they are.
Malo Aupito to the Ministry of Health team for visiting and for the inspiring discussions about the future of health and emergency preparedness in NZ and internationally.
