A tamariki fun day with a healthcare focus, fostered a sense of community and whānau connection in Alexandra yesterday.

Not-for-profit Māori health organisation Uruuruwhenua Hauora hosted the day at Alexandra Baptist Church.

The day included face painting, a bouncy castle, inflatable toys, games, and colouring in, as well as kai (food), hot drinks and ice creams.

Uruuruwhenua Hauora kaiwhakahaere (chief executive) Mel Kuiti said it was about providing a space for whānau to take the opportunity to connect with others, “korero” (have a conversation), along with getting to know the nurses, community outreach coordinators and kaiāwhina hauora (support coordinators).

Free immunisations were available in Tipi Haere (the Uruuruwhenua Hauora mobile health bus) for those under five years old, and comfy couches in an informal setting were part of the attraction.

“It’s a safe and welcoming space to wait for the 15 minutes after a [vaccination]," Mel said.

Keeley Fowler, big cousin of Kaiārahi Fowler (10 months) enjoyed a cuddle yesterday. PHOTO: The Central App 

The day was made possible as Uruuruwhenua Hauora is contracted by Te Whatu Ora (Health New Zealand) to increase the uptake of vaccination for under twos.

Mel said from the last WellSouth and Te Whatu Ora figures only four tamariki in Central (from registered Māori whānau) were not up to date with vaccinations. 

Uruuruwhenua was targeted for Māori but everyone, of all ethnic backgrounds was welcome to make use of their services.

“We won’t turn anyone away.”

Teddy Forsyth (2) was spending time with his grandmother Kaye Stringer and enjoyed an ice-cream. PHOTO: The Central App

Immunisation admin and events coordinator Ali King said one hour into the fun day more than 20 children and 15 adults had already visited, and she hoped to hold more community focused events in the future.

“We’d like to thank our sponsors Unichem Alexandra, Alexandra Pharmacy and Plunket. They provide balms, creams for babies, kids jewellery, measuring cups, crayons and colouring in for tamariki and whānau.”

Ali said everyone who had an immunisation received a $20 voucher for New World too. 

Alexandra’s Millie Morris (3) loved the bouncy castle. PHOTO: The Central App 

Parents and caregivers The Central App spoke to were supportive of the initiative and said it was great to have healthcare questions answered in a welcoming, holistic setting and connect with other families of youngsters in Central at the same time. 

Uruuruwhenua Hauora would be offering health and wellness care again at the New Zealand Merino Shearing and Woolhandling Championships later this year, it will be their fifth time at the event. 

Have a story to share?

Contact [email protected]