Iwi sound call to bare arms in Covid fight

When MidCentral Health began its Tier Two rollout of Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine in late April after immunising frontline medical staff, the Iwi and Ma¯ori Providers workforce was next and on Wednesday Nga¯ti Kahungunu ki Ta¯maki nuia-Rua kaumatua and other iwi personnel were the first to receive their shots at their offices in High St.

While Nga¯ti Kahungunu members were first this was a combined operation between them, MidCentral Health and Rangita¯ ne o Ta¯ maki Nui A Rua, each providing staff to facilitate the process.

On Wednesday staff from each organisation worked together to inoculate over 30 iwi members and on Thursday at Rangitane offices in Gordon St the process was repeated.

Adele Small of the MidCentral Health Board said it was vital to work with local iwi because while her organisation had the technology it was essential to get iwi to mobilise the people.

She was delighted the local iwi in Tararua had come

together to fight the virus and said the process will be repeated in 21 days to provide the second and final vaccination.

This process has been rolling out throughout the Manawatu¯ with other iwi centres in Palmerston North, Feilding and Horowhenua.

Kaumatua in their 90s Ivan and Theo Hape were delighted to be completely protected from the Covid threat with their second jab, having been the first in Manawatu¯ for the first shot three weeks ago.

The roll-out for the rest of

the population begins with Tier Three recipients — those over 65 years and the vulnerable — who will begin receiving their Covid-19 vaccinations in June and Tier Four expected to get their Covid-19 shots about September.

Ivan (93) and Theo (95) Hape are well protected having just had their second Covid-19 injection.

Doris Peeti and Jazz Hema are thrilled to show off their plasters signifying their first Covid shot.

James Kendrick prepares for the pain — but there was none.

Peka Hauiti was ready for his protection.