Kaimahi Kōrero: Phillipa Waata, Tiakina te Tangata Team Lead

This November, for Diabetes Action Month, we're spotlighting our Waikato-based mobile long-term conditions programme, Tiakina te Tangata, where every day is about supporting whānau living with the condition.

The impact of the programme is profound - the team meets people where they are, helps them manage the complex needs of their condition, offers holistic, culturally responsive support, and assists in reconnecting patients with primary care.

We had a kōrero with dedicated team lead, Phillipa Waata, about her mahi in bridging the gap for whānau living with long-term conditions like diabetes.

Tēnā koe Phillipa, thank you for taking the time to sit down and kōrero with us. Can you tell us about your role as Tiakina te Tangata Team Lead and how it contributes to the Primary Health Network at National Hauora Coalition (NHC)?

As the Lead for Tiakina te Tangata, my key role is to support and empower our team, which includes dedicated kaimanaaki, registered nurses, and a clinical pharmacist. I work alongside our team, general practices, internal teams, and external services to ensure that, together, we deliver holistic, whānau-centred care to those who need it most. Our mahi contributes to Primary Health Networks by breaking down barriers to healthcare and fostering a collaborative, culturally responsive approach to care for whānau.

What inspired you to join NHC?

The people and the whānau-centred model of care. I joined NHC as a kaimanaaki in Tiakina te Tangata, and I remember my interview was incredibly authentic. It allowed me to connect with other kaimanaaki and nurses on the team and hear about the amazing mahi they were doing for whānau. The passion the kaimahi had for their work and their commitment to breaking down barriers for whānau made a strong impression on me. I knew instantly that I wanted to be a part of the kaupapa and the NHC whānau, as it aligned with my own values.

What do you enjoy most about working at NHC?

I enjoy working alongside like-minded people who are dedicated to breaking down barriers and advocating for whānau.

How does your role make an impact?

By capturing the voices of both whānau and kaimahi, ensuring that our service model and delivery align with their needs and aspirations.

What’s the most rewarding project you've been involved in as the Tiakina te Tangata Lead?

One of my most rewarding experiences was when we organised a fishing trip through the charity Wish4Fish. We collaborated with them to arrange a day on the water for a large group of whānau living with diabetes, some of whom had multiple comorbidities or disabilities and had never had the chance to go fishing on a boat. Each person was able to bring a whānau member, creating a supportive whānau environment.

Seeing the smiles, laughter, and connections made that day was truly heartwarming, and watching whānau openly share their struggles and achievements with diabetes was incredibly rewarding.

How has working in a Māori-led organisation shaped your approach to your work?

It has reinforced the importance of core values such as manaakitanga, aroha, and whakawhanaungatanga. These values remind me that as leaders, kaimanaaki, nurses, and pharmacists, we have a critical role in bridging the equity gap for whānau and supporting them on their hauora journey.

What skills or qualities are key to being successful in your role?

As a leader, I believe that building strong relationships through open communication and empathy is essential. Creating an environment where everyone feels heard and valued, while encouraging collaboration and innovation, is important to me. Being willing to make mistakes but remaining reflective and solutions-focused is also vital for growth and success.

Can you share a moment when you felt proud to be part of NHC?

I'm immensely proud of our Tiakina Te Tangata team every day for the manaaki, passion, and commitment they bring to the whānau we support. Each kaimahi embodies the values and moemoeā of NHC (Mana Whānau, Whānau Ora - Prosperous families living well) and their dedication makes a significant impact on our communities.

This year's theme for Diabetes Action Month is "Don't Sugar Coat It" — which is said to be about busting the myths that surround diabetes. How do you interpret this message, given the work you do with whānau who live with the condition?

To be honest, I found the theme slightly misleading, as it reinforces a common misconception that diabetes is solely caused by consuming too much sugar. Evidence shows that diabetes has multifactorial causes, with genetics playing a significant role. We encourage whānau that they can still eat with their whānau – it’s about portion sizes and making healthy food choices that benefit the whole whānau. Treat foods can still be enjoyed on special occasions, and it's about finding balance rather than restriction.