19/08/2025
It is with mix of gratitude and sadness that we must announce the end of both of our free dental initiatives in Hauraki: Niho Ora ki Hauraki (dental) and Niho Kēhua ki Hauraki (denture).
Niho Ora ki Hauraki was created in response to the call from our Hauraki communities for accessible, affordable, and mana-enhancing oral healthcare.
Through our partnerships with Dental Planet and The Tooth Group, and the dedication of our kaimahi and community members, we successfully delivered a free, mobile dental service across Hauraki for the past eighteen months.
Through the initiative, we provided free dental care for more than four hundred whānau, many of whom had not seen a dentist in years, and some ever, living with pain, discomfort, and the daily challenges of missing teeth. Our kaimanaaki, kaiāwhina, and dentists turned what is often an intimidating environment into a space of manaakitanga, kindness, and responsive care.
As the initiative progressed, we heard from whānau about the urgent need for dentures. In response, Te Tara o Te Whai created Niho Kēhua ki Hauraki, a funded denture initiative.
With the dedication of our kaimahi, the clinical support of Waikato Dental, and ongoing help from Pito Hauora, we were able to restore more than smiles. We helped restore confidence, dignity, and the basic human right to eat, speak, and live free from pain.
A total of 38 patients received full or partial dentures. For many, this was the first time in years they could enjoy kai without pain, engage in kōrero without whakamā, and face the world with renewed confidence.
We mihi to our whānau who showed up with courage and patience, to our kaimanaaki and kaiāwhina who supported every step of the way, and to our wider rōpū who helped make these initiatives accessible and successful.
As we farewell our initiative and the widespread impact it has had on our Hauraki whānau, we will continue to share some of our special moments in reflection.
Te Tara o Te Whai will continue efforts supporting whānau through Hauraki Primary Health Organisation. Visit their page and website for continued news and updates.
Ngā mihi nui 🩵
