An initiative is being launched in the Western Bay of Plenty with the aim of ensuring equitable access to vital healthcare services.

A local health service is rolling into communities to provide free flu vaccinations for families facing transportation barriers.

“We’ll be at different marae offering vaccinations to our most vulnerable,” says Te Manu Toroa’s Erika Coronel.

“We’re very well aware that we have whanau who are unable to drive to health centres to get immunisation they need.”

Erika says there may be a number of reasons such as having no car, no money for fuel, or no money for a vehicle warrant of fitness.

“This is why we’re driving into communities instead.”

With rising fuel costs and financial constraints preventing many from reaching health centres, this innovative approach by Te Manu Toroa seeks to bridge the gap, ensuring that every individual, regardless of their financial circumstances or access to transportation, has the opportunity to receive essential immunisations.

The flu immunisation event planned for today at Hairini Marae has been postponed due to illness and Te Manu Toroa will be confirming a new date soon. 

The flu vaccinations are free for those 65 years and over, and those 65 years and under who are at risk of becoming sick from the flu.

Those at risk are people:

• With long-term conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease
• With reduced immune function
• Who are pregnant
• With specific mental health conditions or addiction issues
• Those under four years of age who have been hospitalised for respiratory illness or have a history of significant respiratory illness

Te Manu Toroa is the largest Kaupapa Māori provider of primary health services in the Western Bay of Plenty, providing both dental services and GP clinics.

There are two GP clinics. Tauranga Moana City GP Clinic is located in Tebbs Lane, off Courtney Place in Gate Pa. The Te Akau Hauora GP Clinic in Pāpāmoa is located at 35E Hartford Ave, Pāpāmoa.

Both clinics are open Monday to Friday from 8.30am – 4.30pm.

The service also offers a range of community, family and mental health services for children through to adults.

The flu mobile clinic will be navigating through neighbourhoods, bringing a sense of relief and support as well as much-needed medical care to those who might otherwise be unable to access it.

For bookings or pātai, please contact Rondell or Ana on 022 384 9270 or 027 896 5591.