An aspirational approach to public health in Aotearoa

The Public Health Association of New Zealand (PHANZ) held their annual conference in Rotorua over April 11 to 12, bringing together public health experts, policymakers and stakeholders with the theme of “From vulnerable to vibrant: Transformative approaches in public health.”

Ulugia Edward Cowley, Dr Cadence Kaumoana, Dr Elizabeth Mati, Ben Tameifuna

The conference featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including Le Va’s general manager, Dr Elizabeth Mati, who participated in the panel “Priorities, aspirations, and the future state of public health in Aotearoa New Zealand. Where to from here?”

Dr Mati and Ben Tameifuna, Le Va’s senior manager for public health and disability, enjoyed connecting with others who are leading in the public health space in Aotearoa. They found the two days of talanoa about a vision for the future of public health in New Zealand to be insightful and valuable.

Following the event, Dr Mati said, “As always, we know that the solutions lie within our communities and that we must equip them with the right supports and resources to enable our communities to achieve the best possible health and wellbeing outcomes. Thank you to the CEO of PHANZ, Dr Cadence Kaumoana, for inviting Le Va to the Annual Public Health Conference 2024.”

Le Va supports public health initiatives by trying to reduce inequity in health outcomes through workforce development. Learn more about our public health work: Supporting the public health workforce.