Te Ama Mental Health Services, a collaborative effort between the Oamaru Pacific Island Trust (OPIT) and Te Hā o Maru Health and Social Services, was unveiled at the Brydone Hotel. The service, supported by Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora, aims to provide inclusive mental health support to all residents of Waitaki.
Hana Fanene-Taiti, CEO of OPIT, expressed her excitement about the launch, citing a growing need for enhanced mental health resources in the district. She emphasized the service’s foundation on Māori kaupapa and Pacific models of care, designed to be inclusive for all individuals.
Mani Malloy-Sharplin, CEO of Te Hā o Maru Health and Social Services, lauded the collaborative efforts with OPIT in creating Te Ama Mental Health Services. He highlighted their shared cultural values and commitment to community well-being.
The establishment of Te Ama Mental Health Services was spurred by the findings of the Te Huruhanga Time for Change review commissioned by the Southern District Health Board in 2021. The review underscored the inadequacy of mental health and addictions services in Waitaki, prompting community-led initiatives like Stronger Waitaki to advocate for change.
Through a co-design process involving providers, peers, and support groups, Stronger Waitaki facilitated the development of a new support service, leveraging resources from HNZ. The Pre and Post Crisis Support and Navigation Services Working Group was subsequently formed to address community needs.
The Te Ama team, comprising dedicated professionals and support staff, is set to deliver comprehensive care to individuals and families in need. Emphasizing a holistic and culturally responsive approach, the team aims to provide equitable services to the diverse population of Waitaki.
As the project enters Phase 2, referrals for the service are now being accepted, with full operational capacity expected by January 2026. The collaborative efforts of OPIT and Te Hā o Maru Health and Social Services signify a significant step towards bridging the gap in mental health services in the Waitaki district.
