Locality
Prototype
The Locality was driven by whānau and community voice that encompassed a culturally informed integrated healthcare model.
Le Afio’aga O Aotearoa originated from the Pacific locality prototype work delivered through Te Whatu Ora/Health New Zealand, the collective was selected to trial and further develop the Localities approach in Aotearoa, specifically working towards achieving community aspirations for the Ōtara-Papatoetoe region. With a collective vision of empowering families and a strong and interdependent community, 20 Le Afio’aga O Aotearoa partners (mix of diverse groups including mana whenua, religious organisations, sports groups and not-for-profit organisations) formalised their commitment within a locality charter. This work launched collective effort to develop a locality plan to support the organising of primary and community care service provision for our community. Le Afio’aga O Aotearoa’s approach was driven by whānau and community voice that encompassed a culturally informed integrated healthcare model.
Through Le Afio’aga O Aotearoa’s community engagements in gathering whānau voice, the following priorities areas of Child & Maternal Health, Mental Health, Community Outreach and Workforce Development. Through these priorities the Le Afio’aga O Aotearoa was able to activate a sequence of collective activities that supported communities through these various priorities.
Child & Maternal Health
This workstream supported the health and wellbeing of children, mothers and families through a community hub of supported called “Pepe’s Place”. This programme was led by Pasifika Family Health Group. Pepe’s Place was a community-centered service that promoted child and maternal health through accessible, interactive education on topics like vaccination, nutrition and safety. With a 3-tiered approach – family support, referral networking and targeted education – this strengthened family wellbeing by providing tailored resources and programmes to meet community needs.
Mental Health & Addictions
This workstream supported efforts to improve access to primary healthcare services through the development of a Provider Toolkit and Family Toolkit. This programme was led by Penina Trust. The Provider toolkit help to facilitate referrals between primary and secondary mental health services, while the Family Toolkit guides families in recognising mental health needs and accessing resources. Together, these toolkits enhance mental health awareness and streamline support across individual, family and provider networks. Through bilingual delivery, culturally grounded engagement, and streamlined referral pathways, the initiative improved access to mental health support, strengthens social connections and promotes early intervention within Pacific communities.
Mental Health Engagements highlighted
Community Outreach
This workstream was designed to address key family and community needs in Ōtara through a series of community-based events. This programme was co-led by South Seas Healthcare Trust and Ōtara Scorpions. Activities delivered through these events helped improve communities’ access to important health and social services, by creating welcoming, family-friendly events that connect communities with trusted providers in a culturally safe environment where they already reside. Through health checks, referrals, and direct engagement with service providers, families were able to access information and support they may not otherwise have received. The high levels of participant satisfaction and willingness to attend future events demonstrate increased community trust, strengthened connections between families and services, and greater awareness of health and wellbeing needs. By combining outreach, cultural responsiveness, and wraparound support, the workstream has helped reduce barriers to care, promote early intervention, and strengthen community wellbeing.
Community Outreach Engagement Overview
Workforce Development
This workstream strengthened the capability of community and health service providers through the development of a coordinated Village Referral System and workforce training programme. By bringing partners together to co-design referral pathways, training resources, and models of care, the initiative aims to improve how families are connected to health, social, housing, and wellbeing services. This collective work focused on building workforce skills, standardising referral and data practices, and ensuring seamless follow-up support for whānau and āiga. Through collaboration, capacity building, and continuous improvement, the programme enhanced service integration, strengthens community outreach, and supports better outcomes for Pacific families and communities.