Public health is about population groups – looking beyond health care services to the aspects of society, environment, culture, economy and community that shape the health status of populations.
Pasifika public health workforce development programme
Pasifika peoples continue to have poorer health status than the general New Zealand population, with lower life expectancy and higher rates of mortality and hospitalisations for conditions that could have been avoided, given timely access to effective healthcare.
A key enabler for reducing inequalities in health outcomes is developing a capable workforce. Le Va’s focus is to strengthen the Pacific public health workforce, and enhance the capability of the non-Pacific workforce to ensure access to best possible services for Pasifika people and their families.
Le Va’s work is guided by Ministry of Health priorities, as outlined in Taeao o Tautai: Pacific Public Health Workforce Development Implementation Plan which is currently being refreshed.
Supporting Pacific nurses
In October 2025, more than 70 Pacific nurses gathered in Maungakiekie, One Tree Hill, for the Pacific Nurses Section Symposium and AGM, supported by Le Va’s public health team.
Led in 2025 by the Fiji Nurses Association NZ, the symposium was a chance to bring together Pacific nurses from across the motu, to connect, share experiences and hear from sector leaders.
Le Va was honoured to support the Pacific Nursing Symposium 2024 in CollaborAction with the Tongan Nurses Association and the Pacific Nurses Section.
Pasifika public health leaders
Public health qualifications open a range of doors for diverse career opportunities. Be inspired to work in public health by watching videos of four Pasifika leaders working in public health.
