More than 102 tamariki and adults were vaccinated in the first pop-up clinic run by a kaupapa Māori health provider last weekend on the West Coast.
5-year-old Amiria Baldwin-Smith (Ngāti Waewae) celebrates after receiving her vaccine with a high-five from a Poutini Waiora nurse. Photo: Supplied / Poutini Waiora
On Saturday, Poutini Waiora ran the clinic at Arahura Marae, near Hokitika, which saw over 50 tamariki get their first dose.
Poutini Waiora Acting Chief Executive, Lisa Tumahai, said it was a fantastic day.
She said, "t was very positive to see such a large turn out during the first week of 5 to 11-year-olds being eligible for the vaccine."
"The free bouncy castle, ice cream, sausage sizzle, and bubbles were a hit with tamariki and their whānau, helping to make getting vaxxed a fun and comfortable experience."
Tumahai said the same model will be repeated in eight weeks' time at the same marae.
"It was lovely to see tamariki and moko being supported by their Pāua and Tāua, as well as their parents, caregivers, and guardians," she said.
Everyone is welcome at the clinics, and Poutini Waiora will continue to work with the West Coast District Health Board to support vaccinations for all.
"There will continue to be regular opportunities for whānau Māori and the Te Tai Poutini community to get vaccinated across the main centres, as well as more rural areas," assured Lisa Tumahai.
"Transport [to a vaccination clinic] can also be arranged by request."
Bookings to attend an upcoming clinic can be made by visiting www.bookmyvaccine.nz or contacting District Coordinator Hamiria Hutana (03 755 6451).