Blog
This post is the first in a series highlighting key stories from the Annual Report for 2024–2025. One result that stood out in the Annual Report 2024-2025 was the rise in childhood immunisation across our network. More tamariki received all their vaccinations by two years of age, with coverage increasing from 77.5% to 85.1%. This … Read more
The Western Bay of Plenty Primary Health Organisation (WBOP PHO) has published its Annual Report 2024–2025. The report shares a snapshot of how your local, GP and iwi-owned PHO supported our communities, general practice and partners. It also shows how our mahi focused on strengthening equity and improving access to care across the region. What … Read more
Tāpiri Mai, a project co-designed with the community to improve access to healthcare for whānau on Matakana and Mōtītī Islands in the Bay of Plenty, has entered a new phase focused on building health literacy. Following three years of work to strengthen infrastructure, systems for telehealth and expand access to services, locally delivered diabetes self-management … Read more
Welcome to the December 2025 edition of Te Rerenga. This issue reflects on a year of change, partnership and progress across our network. We acknowledge the leadership of Lindsey Webber as she steps away from the CEO role and welcome Sarah Stevenson as interim CEO. You will also find stories that highlight the strength of … Read more
Summer is here, and many in our community will be taking time to rest, travel or enjoy the warm days across the Bay of Plenty. The holiday period is a busy time for our region, with beaches, parks and community spaces full of activity. This guide brings together simple tips to help you stay well, … Read more
Understanding the New Zealand health system is important for everyone, whether you’re new to the country or simply want to make the most of the care available to you and your whānau. To support this, the Western Bay of Plenty Primary Health Organisation (WBOP PHO) hosted Your Health Journey, a free online webinar held on … Read more
The Bay of Plenty stop smoking service Hāpainga has been recognised at Te Whakanuia i Auahi Kore national awards held at the Auckland War Memorial Museum on 13 November 2025. Hosted by Hāpai Te Hauora Māori Public Health, the event celebrated the people, organisations and initiatives contributing to Aotearoa’s Smokefree goal. Hāpainga received Te Tohu … Read more
The Western Bay of Plenty Primary Health Organisation (WBOP PHO) Board has appointed Sarah Stevenson as interim Chief Executive Officer, with immediate effect. The Board made this decision at its meeting on 25 November 2025. The interim role gives the organisation clarity and stability as it works through changes in the primary care sector. The … Read more
Building on the successful full-day wānanga held in July 2025, Let’s Talk Screening is now accessible as a free online training. This resource supports non-clinical staff to engage in culturally safe and respectful conversations about breast, bowel and cervical screening with Māori and Pacific whānau. All training materials — including video modules, slide decks, handbooks … Read more
Ngāti Kahu Hauora has celebrated the reopening and blessing of Waiāio, their newly restored Whare Matua in Bethlehem, Tauranga. The name Waiāio, meaning peaceful waters, was gifted by Ngāti Kahu hapū representative Charlie Rahiri Jnr and reflects the hauora’s deep connection to the Wairoa River and its people. The cottage holds a long and proud … Read more
