Dr Saia Ma'u Piukala, center, with Aotearoa's Pacific community leaders at the University of Auckland. Photo: RNZ Pacific / Grace Tinetali-Fiavaai
The World Health Organisation's regional director for the Western Pacific, Tonga's Dr Saia Ma'u Piukala's visit to Aotearoa this week, has drawn strong backing from local Pacific community leaders.
Dr Piukala, the first Pacific Islander to hold the position, was appointed to the role in January.
He was at University of Auckland's Fale Pasifika on Wednesday, where he spoke about giving Pacific communities a stronger voice on a global level.
He said the WHO was finalising its vision document, which will be presented to the regional committee in October.
Plans are already underway to finalise the regional action plan which Dr Piukala said draws inspiration from the weaving of pandanus leaves - a practices with deep cultural and historical meaning within Pacific communities - with five strands in portrait and three strands in landscape.
Dr Saia Ma'u Piukala speaking at the Fale Pasifika. Photo: RNZ Pacific / Grace Tinetali-Fiavaai
"We cannot do this alone, we need each other, and for us leaders we need to listen to the needs and priorities of our communities," he said.
"We are finalising our vision document that will be presented to our regional committee in October."
Sir Colin Tukuitonga, Labour MP Jenny Salesa, former MP Aupito Su'a William Sio, and many other Pacific researchers were also present to show their support and unity in backing Dr Piukala in his WHO role.
Pacific regional health leader embarks on regional tour
Sir Colin is hopeful that Dr Piukala will implement changes, especially for the Western Pacific region.
"We can get some new energy, innovation and resources, engaging communities and engaging universities like ours," Sir Colin said.
Aupito said Dr Piukala's role means Pacific people will have a voice at WHO's decision-making table.
"It was the Pacific understanding that in order to have representation and to have our perspective injected into the WHO, especially our region, we [need to] stand together. That is what they did - they united around Dr Piukala."
Broadcaster and community advocate John Pulu said the Tongan surgeon and former health minister's visit has lifted the community's spirits.
"To have him here at a place where education is taught, you just never know who he might inspire."
Dr Piukala will visit the Auckland Hospital today.