Dr Siale Foliaki

Dr Siale ‘Alo Foliaki is a distinguished psychiatrist in New Zealand, renowned for his extensive contributions to mental health and the Pacific community. He earned his medical degree from the University of Otago in 1993 and became a Fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists in 2006, with dual specialization in both adult and child psychiatry.

Throughout his career, Dr Foliaki has held senior clinical roles within the Counties Manukau District Health Board, serving as a Consultant Psychiatrist at Middlemore Hospital in Ōtāhuhu.

He has been instrumental in establishing several Pacific health organizations, including the Tongan Health Society, Faleola Services (Pacific Adult Mental Health Services), and Vaka Toa (Pacific Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) for CMDHB.

In recognition of his services to mental health and the Pacific community, Dr Foliaki was appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2023.

Beyond his clinical practice, Dr Foliaki has been active in psychiatric research, serving as the lead Pacific researcher in Te Rau Hinengaro, the New Zealand Mental Health Survey.

He also contributes to the community as a Director of the Board of Vaka Tautua and Chair of the PIASS Trust.

Dr Foliaki’s dedication to improving mental health services and his leadership within Pacific health initiatives have made a significant impact on healthcare in New Zealand.