New appointment targets inequities in Māori health

A Senior Lecturer in the School of Health Sciences at Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University, Dr Reweti specialises in public health and Hauora Māori, with a focus on empowering communities and centring the role of whānau in health and wellbeing.

Dr Reweti says being elected is both a privilege and a responsibility.

The Māori Caucus within PHANZ has a clear mandate under the leadership of Dr Reweti: to elevate the presence and influence of kaupapa Māori within public health spaces. A key priority for Dr Reweti is fostering a strong, connected Māori Caucus where members feel heard, valued and empowered to influence policy and advocacy.

“I want to ensure Māori perspectives shape PHANZ’s policy and advocacy work, particularly in areas where inequities persist. This includes creating spaces for Māori-led research, innovation and solutions while highlighting the strengths of whānau and community-based health approaches,” she says.

A pressing challenge for Māori health is the dismantling of Māori-led health structures and the lack of meaningful commitment to upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi. While these challenges continue, Dr Reweti upholds a sense of optimism.

“Movements such as Toitū te Tiriti and hui organised by the Kīngitanga highlight the unwavering commitment of Māori to upholding Te Tiriti. The strength and vibrancy of our rangatahi, exemplified by leaders like Hana Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, remind us that our future is being shaped by aspirational, determined Māori voices who continue to challenge and inspire change. These movements reflect our enduring values of kotahitanga, mana motuhake and collective strength in advancing the health and wellbeing of our people.”

Dr Reweti sees Māori health as inherently collective and intergenerational, and she emphasises the importance of Māori-led solutions

“Māori communities already hold the solutions to improving Māori health. Policies must support, fund and uphold these solutions, not impose top-down approaches.

“We must use Māori measures of success rather than relying solely on Western health indicators. Prioritising whānau and hapū-based health initiatives, investing in kaupapa Māori research, and strengthening the Māori health workforce will ensure that more Māori voices are leading and shaping public health from within the system.”

Her appointment signals a commitment towards a more inclusive and equitable public health system—one that uplifts Māori communities and supports their aspirations for better health outcomes.