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How it all began

The genesis of Ōrakei Health began in the 1970's desired from our Ngāti Whātua kuia (elderly woman) and kaumātua (elderly men) to manaaki (look after) and awhi (support) in advocating Māori health and well-being for our Whānau and the wider community. By influence of Aunty Ruby, Aunty Anne, Aunty Josie, Aunty Puawai, Uncle Hapi and many others; the moemoea (vision) would be the fore front of what Ōrakei Health has become today.

 

We first opened within a small prefab at the back of Ōrakei Marae with social services. Years later in 1990, a Whare Ora (house of health) was established called Tumanako (hope) House, named after the kuia Tumanako - also known as Aunty Hope; and by virtue of its name, a place of hope.

 

Throughout the early 2000's, our Whare Ora (house of health) grew in to a Health clinic. More Māori integrated into this sector with their collective experience and knowledge which enabled Ōrakei Health to further the motive "For Māori, by Māori - influencing hauora journey's together".  The intention was to present whānau and the community with the importance of their well-being and how we could support them on their journey.

 

Fifty years since its inception, our clinic has continued to grow and support our community. As we continue the legacy and commitment of our Kuia and Kaumatua, we recognise just how far we have come. From a small prefab to a clinic, to now working alongside other Health Organisations within Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland) and extending into Primary Care and Community Development; Ōrakei Health are committed in ensuring your Hauora is our priority.

"We needed to have a look at the needs of our people and how we can help... we were able to get Tumanako house for the purpose of setting up a Whare Ora (House of health) so we can get into the hauora of our people."

Puna (Danny) Tumahai

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Our Team

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Sariah Witika

Practice Manager

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Dr. Maree Park

Clinical Lead & General Practitioner

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Sarah Wright

Nurse Lead

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Dr. Michael Courtenay

General Practitioner

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General Practitioner

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Dr. Sophie Ball

General Practitioner

Dr. Kimberley Davies

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Karyn O'Connor

Nurse

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Irene Wieringa

Nurse

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Michaela Stevens

Health Care Assistant

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George Wilcox

Health Care Assistant

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Megan Cook

Lead Receptionist

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Peyton Kaihe-Rakete

Receptionist

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