Health clinic reopens at multicultural centre
A health clinic has returned to Timaru’s Te Aitarakihi Multicultural Centre.
Arowhenua Whā nau Services moved its clinic to Elizabeth St, Timaru, about three years ago, returning to the Bridge St multicultural centre yesterday. It also has clinics in Temuka, Twizel and Waimate, kaiwhakahaere (manager) Maria Parish (Ngāi Tahu) said.
‘‘It’s fantastic to be back at Te Aitarakihi. We are providing services for Mā ori and all other people. We are providing a nurseled clinic on Mondays, and clinics other week days to direct people to what they need.’’
She said access to the service is available to everyone whether they are vaccinated or not.
While there was a vaccination pass sign on the gate at the entrance to the centre, she said there was a free right of way for those unvaccinated to enter the clinic.
Te Aitarakihi Society Incorporated chairman Damon Odey (Ngāti Mutunga) said it was a special day, before a powhiri to reopen the clinic attended by about 60 people.
‘‘It’s about unity, Arowhenua Whā nau Services joining on site at Te Aitarakihi. It’s about working together for better and more positive outcomes.
‘‘Our strategic plan is to extend, grow and partner with groups in the community,’’ he said.
Kaikorero (speaker) Haami Rahui (Tūhoe, Ngāi Tahu) said the Arowhenua Whā nau Services move was a big boost for Te Aitarakihi.
Te Aitarakihi business development manager Dave Jack said it had been a long time coming.
‘‘It’s a great day for both of us,’’ he said.
Jack was appointed to the newly created position in August to oversee the implementation of Te Aitarakihi’s long-term strategic plan to expand its multicultural community centre which includes creating a health hub.
■ Arowhenua Whā nau Services, at Te Aitarakihi Multicultural centre on Bridge St, in Timaru, is open from 10.30am-4pm MondayFriday, with a nurse-led clinic on Mondays.