New horizons for Pacific health: Tangata Atumotu to have permanent presence in Ashburton

Ashburton’s growing Pacific community will now have access to culturally appropriate health and wellbeing services from the longest standing Pacific health provider in the region.

Tangata Atumotu is a Christchurch based organisation that has been delivering health and wellbeing services for the last 23 years. Now, Tangata Atumotu will have a permanent presence in Ashburton to deliver services for the fast-growing Pacific population.

Pacific Outreach Coordinator Percy Tilialo is the first staff member based in Ashburton, and says it is an exciting opportunity to serve in the new role.

“I’m excited to work for an organisation that is for Pasifika, by Pasifika. We know what our community needs, we know what works, and I’m loving being able to get stuck in and make a difference,” she says.

Tangata Atumotu had previously delivered successful programmes in Ashburton, including working with the community to lift vaccination rates and providing financial literacy workshops.

General Manager Carmen Collie says the new hub will continue their mission to uplift Pacific communities across Canterbury.

“Seeing the reception that our services received when visiting Ashburton made it clear to us that we need to establish permanent local support. We’re now poised to bring impactful programmes and services to this vibrant and growing part of Ashburton community.

“Our team will be focused on generating a better base of health and wealth for Pasifika, to help address the disparity of health outcomes faced by Pacific people here in Aotearoa.”

The organization says tailored support for Pasifika are essential part of nurturing growing Pacific communities, while upholding cultural values.

Watch the full interview with Tangata Atumotu Operations Manager Seiuli Tauamiti here: