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Whakawhiti Ora Pai - Rural Solution to Injury Prevention

Whakawhiti Ora Pai is the most north Maori Health Provider in New Zealand, being based with its main clinic in Te Kao and Pukenui and an outreach Registered Nurse service in Te Hapua (New Zealand’s most northern community). The organization services a geographical area of the Aupouri Peninsula (Awanui to Cape Reinga). Population ranges from 2,500 to 8000 during the Christmas peak season.

The majority of the regions communities within Whakawhiti Ora Pai service area are rural, isolated with low socio economics, however despite these challenges the organization prides itself on its innovative and pro-active approach it takes to providing Primary Health Care Services, incorporated into its services is the overarching philosophy of Injury Prevention, this philosophy is highlighted through its numerous Health Promotion Programmes which include:

• Tai Chi (a programme that has been designed to capture the Far North uniqueness and own style, with the support of ACC, Safer Rohe)
• Pilates (Far North Style)
• Get Healthy Gym Based Programme (utilizing local resources, both human and venue) a programme that encompasses the direction of a personal gym trainer with dietitian advice and support).
• Men’s Health Events (an event that promotes physical activity mixed with clinical health promotion education specifically designed for men)
• Early Childhood Days: (sports event designed for 1yr – 5yrs of age, promoting physical activity and nutrition advice)

These are to name only a small portion of the programmes that are delivered through the organization. Access was identified as one of the main barriers to supporting Whakawhiti Ora Pai programmes, for this reason the majority of these programmes provide a “pick up and drop off” service, this way ensuring that participation is achieved, for the sustainability of its programmes.

Health benefits that have been achieved by participants include:

• Decrease in high blood pressures
• Decrease in high cholesterol levels
• Mobility (more movement)
• Social interaction skills
• Decrease in falls
• Weight loss

With its population being made up of 15% being over the age of 65yrs (and increasing) and 30% of its population being between the ages of 5-24yrs the health promotion team ensures that the appropriate programmes are designed to align to its target audience.

For further information pertaining to the organizations programmes, plan of event for 2008 or general enquiries please feel free to contact 09 409 7880 or 09 409 8287.