A Talanoa of Purpose, Faith, and Collective Responsibility for Quality Care

Practice Manager Ioana Viliamu-Amusia

Pacific Health Plus is pleased to welcome Ioana Viliamu-Amusia as our new Practice Manager, supporting one team delivering care across Porirua, Kāpiti, and the wider Wellington region.

As the only Pacific-led general practice in the Central Region, Pacific Health Plus carries a responsibility to lead with clinical integrity and cultural confidence, while responding to the real needs of the people and communities we serve. Ioana's appointment strengthens this commitment, bringing together lived experience, professional expertise, and Pacific values at a leadership level.

Alongside her Pacific grounding and community leadership, Ioana brings strong experience across general practice and primary care systems. Her understanding of clinical environments, operational flow, and data-informed decision-making is central to her role as Practice Manager and to strengthening how Pacific Health Plus delivers care.

"I come not just with experience and expertise," Ioana shared at her formal welcome, "but with my village, my family, my Tokelau and Samoan connections, and my church community. I bring lived experience of the communities we serve and a commitment to meeting needs and changing lives. I'm excited about working together to strengthen our systems, operations, and use of data so we can make a real difference for our people."

That commitment to meeting needs and changing lives, Pacific Health Plus's core value and motto, was echoed throughout the welcome event, which brought together staff, community leaders, and partners in a gathering grounded in responsibility, resilience, and collective leadership.

Practice Manager Ioana Viliamu-Amusia with her family, PHP team and former colleagues.

The formal welcome was led by Taulalo (Lalo) Fiso, Interim General Manager of Pacific Health Plus, who set the context for Ioana's appointment and the work ahead.

"This appointment is about strengthening how we deliver care," said Fiso. "It's about good systems, clinical quality, and resilient teams, all underpinned by Pacific values, relationships, and trust. Ioana steps into this role with the confidence and support of Pacific Health Plus leadership as we move into the next phase."

The spiritual grounding of the occasion was led by Pastor Teremoana Tauira-Maka, representing the Pacific Health Plus Pacific Advisory Panel, who reminded those present that leadership in Pacific communities is always collective.

"When one person steps forward," he shared, "they do so carrying their family, their village, and their faith. This role is not walked alone."

That reflection was echoed by Kalisi Viliamu-Hope, speaking on behalf of the Viliamu family and referencing Numbers 6:24, a blessing of protection, grace, and peace, affirming that individuals arrive not alone, but with their family and values.

The welcome was attended by Pacific Health Plus staff, community leaders, and partners, including Henrietta Hunkin-Tagaloa (Director Pacific), Angela Wilson, and members of the Tū Ora Compass Health team, reflecting the importance of strong, values-aligned relationships in supporting leadership and care.

Within that context of collective support and shared purpose, Ioana steps forward, not alone, but carried by her village and grounded in the values that guide Pacific Health Plus: meeting needs, changing lives.

Pacific Health Plus Kilikiti at the Cello Basin Reserve

What an unforgettable day of sport, culture, and connection at the Pacific Health Plus Kilikiti at The Cello Basin Reserve event on Saturday, 1 March! The energy was electric as our community came together to celebrate fitness, skill, and the true spirit of fellowship and wellbeing.

It was inspiring to see teams take to the field, showcasing the passion and talent that make kilikiti such a beloved sport in our Pacific communities. More than just a game, this event was a testament to the strength of aiga, bringing people of all ages together in a shared experience of laughter, competition, and cultural pride.

A huge fa’afetai tele lava to our incredible partners — Cricket Wellington, the Ministry for Pacific Peoples, Cello Basin Reserve and the Wellington Sāmoa Kirikiti Association (WSKA) — for their support. We also extend our gratitude to our hardworking Pacific Health Plus staff and the amazing team at Truffle Café Kāpiti for helping make this event such a success.

Moments like these remind us of the power of community and the importance of staying active, connected, and proud of our heritage.

Community Outreach Highlights

Through diverse community outreach events, Pacific Health Plus has continued its commitment to promoting health and wellbeing while fostering community engagement and collaboration. We look forward to further opportunities to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals and communities alike.

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U-Matter Tag Tournament: Promoting Men's Health & Wellbeing

A shoutout to PCTag Module for organising the U-Matter Tag Tournament! Our team participated in this event dedicated to promoting men's health and wellbeing. We engaged with the community by conducting health checks and facilitating enrolments for various health programmes. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with people and raise awareness about essential health issues.

Pasifika Celebration Day Festival

A big fa'afetai tele lava to Fale Pasifika Horowhenua and everyone who contributed to this year's Pasifika Celebration Day Festival at the Levin Domain! Our team was thrilled to be part of this vibrant event, where we promoted health services and cervical screening alongside the festivities. The day was filled with cultural richness and community spirit, making it a memorable experience for all involved.

Pacific Health Plus Kilikiti Games at the Basin Reserve

In March, we hosted the first-ever Kilikiti games at the Basin Reserve in collaboration with Cricket Wellington. It was heartwarming to see the community come together to support this initiative. Fa'afetai tele lava to everyone who joined us in celebrating this traditional Pasifika sport. The event was a testament to the power of sports in bringing people together and promoting community spirit.

NZ Secondary Schools Volleyball Tournament

What an incredible couple of days it was at this year’s NZ Secondary Schools Volleyball Tournament in Palmerston North! Our presence wasn't just about witnessing thrilling matches; we also aimed to contribute to the wellbeing of our community. We extend our gratitude to Niuvaka Trust for collaboration and support. Fa'afetai lava also goes out to Whitireia and WelTec for their invaluable assistance through their dedicated student nurses.

Exciting Leadership Announcement at Pacific Health Plus

We are pleased to announce a significant development within Pacific Health Plus as we welcome Cory Vessey as our new General Manager. Cory will be taking over from Api Fiso, who will be assuming a Managing Director’s role, focusing on overarching strategies and initiatives that will further elevate Pacific Health Plus.

Cory brings valuable expertise and leadership aligned with our strategic goals. His career spans more than 10 years in the health sector where he has been responsible for commissioning health and social services with a particular focus on improving outcomes for Pacific. Throughout his career, Cory has held a mixture of operational and leadership roles, this includes his most recent role as the Director of Commissioning for Pasifika Medical Association. He brings a strong combination of experience in public health services and working within and across Pacific sector networks. Cory is excited about the opportunity to join and work alongside the PHP team to continue improving outcomes for Pasifika people.

In addition to overseeing pivotal strategic growth areas critical to our mission, including investing in new health technologies, developing partnerships, expanding our community outreach, fostering staff growth, improving patient interactions, and more, Cory will also handle significant budget responsibilities.  

Cory is of Niuean descent, a proud Wellingtonian, and enjoys spending time and travelling with his family (Cassandra and Matisse).

Cory's role is crucial in driving Pacific Health Plus forward, and we're confident in his capabilities. Welcome to the aiga, Cory. We are excited about the positive impact we know you will bring to our team.

Pacific Health Plus Community Health & Wellbeing Day

On Saturday 14 October 2023, Te Rauparaha Arena in Porirua transformed into a hub of wellness, where individuals and families came together to prioritise their health. The day included a volleyball tournament consisting of 42 teams, health literacy stalls/workshops, health services and clinics including vaccinations/immunisations, mental wellbeing stalls, first aid and food/refreshments. 

Vinaka, Meitaki Maata, Fakaaue, Tangkiu, Fa’afetai lava, Fakafetai lahi lele, Malo ‘Aupito, Fakafetai lasi, Tangkyu, thank you to the 600+ of you who joined us and to all the supporters, volunteers, sponsors, and participants who made this event possible.

Pacific Health Plus Community Health & Wellbeing Stakeholder Event

We had a fantastic night on Friday 13 October celebrating Pacific health and wellbeing at the opening event of the Pacific Health Plus Community Health & Wellbeing Day Stakeholder Event at Te Rauparaha Arena.

Special thanks to Anita Baker - Mayor of Porirua City, Minister for Pacific Peoples and MP for Mana Hon Barbara Edmonds, National Mana Candidate Frances Hughes for joining us for this event.

Our General Manager, To'omata Apineru Fiso, and Community Connector Manager, Molly Fiso, shared some opening words, creating a warm and family-oriented atmosphere. We also extend our gratitude to the fantastic Pasifika Cultural Club from Whitby Collegiate School for their performance.

Big thanks to everyone who supported and contributed to making this community event a great success!

The Carterton Youth Village Trust Visit

In October 2023, Pacific Health Plus Kāpiti hosted a group of young individuals, aged 12 to 24. They spent a week in Porirua at a Marae and visited Pacific Health Plus to gain insight into basic healthcare. During their visit, they participated in various activities, including checking blood pressure, assessing vision, monitoring blood sugar levels (BSL), crafting paninis at Truffle Café, and engaging in team games.

Am Tabomoa Foundation Trust Collaboration

Pacific Health Plus is proud to celebrate its flourishing relationship with the Am Tabomoa Foundation Trust. In May 2023, we supported the Te Mauri Health Day Festival, immunising over 400 community members against COVID-19, MMR, and influenza at the War Memorial Hall. In June, we extended our efforts at PHP Kāpiti, ensuring no one was left behind and provided vaccinations for those unable to attend the Te Mauri Health Day Festival. In October, we participated in the Kiribati Health Day at Te Rauparaha Arena, immunising a further 150 people. This partnership is a testament to our shared commitment to community wellbeing.

South Seas Healthcare Collaboration

In March 2023, Pacific Health Plus led by our General Manager, To’omata Apineru Fiso, celebrated the collaboration with South Seas Healthcare and their Chief Executive, Lemalu Sailao. Working to improve health, education, prosperity and resilience.

Cyclone Gabrielle Response

Pacific Health Plus, Whitby Collegiate, Shoe Clinic and Taeomanino Trust under the leadership of Fiso Group, were able to provide much-needed supplies and equipment to those affected by Cyclone Gabrielle. 11 drivers and assistants left Whitby Collegiate in 6 vehicles fully loaded with supplies and equipment. Our visit to Hastings was both a humbling and inspiring experience. Despite the devastating impact of the floods, we were able to witness the incredible resilience and strength of the communities we visited.