Our Team: Tākanga Fekumi
Prof. Nāsili Vaka'uta
Research Lead
PhD, Theology (University of Auckland); Director, Centre for Advocacy, Research & Empowerment;Trinity Theological College
Dr. Seini Tāufa-Helu
Co-researcher
PhD, Paediatrics (University of Auckland); Senior Research Fellow, University of Auckland
Dr. Chris Puli'uvea
Co-researcher
PhD, Immunology (University of Auckland); Senior Lecturer, Immunology, Auckland University of Technology
Dr. Edmond Fehoko
Co-researcher
PhD, Public Health (Auckland University of Technology); Senior Lecturer, Human Nutrition, University of Otago
Dr. 'Ana Tūtone-Tualau
Co-researcher
PhD, Molecular Biology (University of Auckland); Senior Business Analyst, Organisational Performance & Improvement, University of Auckland.
Associate Prof. Sione Vaka
Co-researcher
PhD, Nursing (Massey University); Associate Dean Pacific, University of Waikato, Division of Health PVC Office
Our Support Team: Kau Tokoni
Tupou Silia Vaka'uta
Research Co-ordinator
MA, Human Geography (University of Auckland); Advisor, Ministry for Pacific Peoples
Latai I. Vaka'uta
Research Assistant
MHSc candidate, Health Science, University of Waikato
Rosrine Vaka'uta
Research Assistant
BFA, Fine Arts, University of Auckland
Senitila Tūtone
Transcription
Barbara Maile
Transcription
Alioth Helu
Translation
Advisory Panel: Kau Fakataukei
Sione Tu'itahi
Strategic Advisor, Health Promotion Forum of New Zealand; Chief Executive Officer, Global Fonua Ltd
Dr. Hala Rohorua
Senior Academic Researcher & Consultant, Waikato
Dr. Viliami Tūtone
Consultant Nephrologist, Te Whatu Ora; Tongan community health advocate
Siesina Mānoa
Community Leader, Tongan Society South Canterbury
Dr. Manatu Fia
Clinical Psychologist, Massey University
Manatu'ofa: remembering Jione
The late Rev. Prof. Jione Havea was a member of the research team before he passed away suddenly in April 2026. His insights and contribution were instrumental in setting up the project in the beginning. We remember him with gratitude.
Rev. Prof. Jione Havea
Co-researcher
PhD, Religious Studies (Southern Methodist University, Texas); Senior Research Fellow, Religious Studies, Trinity Theological College