04/07/2025
Today marks 11 years since the doors first opened at The Whānau Ora Community Clinic — officially launched by the late Dame June Mariu and the late Dame Tariana Turia on 4 July 2014 at 12 Lambie Drive, Manukau.
What began as a single clinic led by Dr. Sitaleki Finau and two staff members has grown into a national network of services, delivering kaupapa Māori care from Kaeo in the north to Christchurch in the south, and from a team of 7 staff to 154 dedicated kaimahi.
Key Achievements Over the Past 11 Years:
Expansion of Practices: From a single Manukau base to operating general practices, support services, and outreach clinics across Aotearoa.
Covid-19 Response: Leading the charge in testing, vaccination, and essential support, with over 250,000 food and wellbeing packs distributed during the pandemic.
Integrated Services: Incorporating retail (KiwiBank/NZ Post), physiotherapy, early childcare, employment services, and housing initiatives, ensuring holistic support for whānau.
Trans-Tasman Reach: Extending support to Māori and Pacific communities in Queensland, Australia.
Cultural and Clinical Leadership: Maintaining Māori health leadership at the centre of service design and delivery.
Training and Scholarships: Supporting the next generation of Māori health professionals through nursing scholarships and hands-on clinic experience.
Our story is one of resilience, whānau, and unwavering commitment to equity and access. We acknowledge our kaimahi, partners, funders, and most of all, the thousands of whānau who have trusted us with their care.
Transitioning Out Aotearoa uncloaks its very first general practice, the first of five clinics scheduled to open in the next 12 months.Manukau, Auckland, New...
