Matakana Island initiative brings rural health innovation to national spotlight
After being showcased on the world stage in Lisbon, Portugal, the Tāpiri Mai project has now received national attention, with a feature on TVNZ’s 1News highlighting the impact of this community-led healthcare model.
Reporter Jordyn Rudd travelled to Matakana Island to see firsthand how the project is transforming access to healthcare for rural communities through a blend of digital technology and trusted, face-to-face care. The story aired during the 6pm news bulletin on Saturday 25 May.
Tāpiri Mai is a collaboration between Te Awanui Hauora, Ngāti Kahu Hauora, and the Western Bay of Plenty Primary Health Organisation. The model was co-designed with whānau from Matakana and Mōtītī Islands in response to long-standing barriers to care, which became even more pronounced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
By combining telehealth tools such as Starlink internet with mobile outreach led by a local nurse, the project supports patients to connect with their GP without the cost and time involved in travelling to the mainland. For many residents, it’s meant earlier access to care and a renewed sense of connection to services that once was too distant.
In the 1News segment, Te Awanui Hauora’s Hera Murray (Community Nurse Lead) and Te Uta Roretana (Chief Operations Officer) shared how the service works in practice and the impact it’s having on local lives. Community members also spoke about the difference the service has made, from convenience to improved continuity of care.
“It’s a game-changer really, for the community,” said Murray. “People are accessing their doctor earlier instead of waiting until it’s too late.”
“I’m fortunate to have direct contact with the people that are important to me to keep me healthy,” shared Matakana resident Te Kira Toma.
Just one week earlier, Tāpiri Mai was featured at the International Conference on Integrated Care (ICIC25) in Portugal, where Hera Murray and Kiri Peita, WBOP PHO’s General Manager Māori, Population Health & Equity, represented the project on the global stage.
