“We’ve got a good foundation of our systems,” says Etu Pasifika nursing manager Matty Teata. “The vibe from everyone that are coming in is absolutely positive. That’s a great start for our first week.”

The new clinic on Montreal Street in central Christchurch is the old Etu Pasifika premises and has been operating as a vaccination centre after the Etu Pasifika team moved into their new clinic on Tuam Street two weeks ago.

Teata says vaccinations are the best protection the community has against the Covid 19 virus. The Pacific staff of six, including a doctor and two nurses, are available to answer any questions about the vaccine and the process. The centre also has a Pacific atmosphere, with artwork and space that encourages fellowship and community engagement.

“We encourage anyone to come in and get more information about what the vaccine is. There shouldn’t be any fear around the vaccine. The fear should be around the Covid-19 virus and its unpredictability.”

Maliana Tohi and ten family members spanning three generations received their first dose of Covid-19 vaccination on the first day of operation. Her bubble included her 75-year-old father, Lord Feleti Sevele, who is a former Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Tonga.

Maliana felt privileged to be vaccinated.

“We received really good service.  Our aim was to keep everyone safe, not just within our bubble, but the wider community. We were doing our part.”

Maliana appreciated that the staff could explain the process to her and her family in Tongan and that there were pamphlets with relevant information in the Tongan language.

She encourages all Pacific families in the Canterbury region to visit the centre to receive their vaccinations.

“Pasifika have our very own service here, which we should utilise. It’s not just for you, it’s to protect your parents, your elderly, those who are more vulnerable.”

To book an appointment, call Etu Pasifika on 03 365 1002.

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Date: Thursday 10 June 2021