National hui on Maori health issues to be held in Rotorua

About 150 Maori medical practitioners, doctors, nurses and medical graduates will converge on Rotorua this weekend for a national hui to discuss Maori health issues.

The hui is part of the Health Services and Outcomes Inquiry currently before the Waitangi Tribunal.

The Tribunal's kaupapa inquiry programme seeks to identify and address nationally significant claims that affect all Maori, and redress systemic problems preventing the active protection of the principles guaranteed in Te Tiriti o Waitangi to Maori across all sectors of the healthcare industry.

In a recent memorandum of directions by Judge Stephen Clark last month, he said there were currently 181 claims - a number that was growing on a weekly basis.

"No decisions have been made yet as to eligibility because, as we have repeatedly stated, we first want to identify themes for investigation and inquiry which warrant priority."

Judge Clark called for the national hui to consider priorities in the primary healthcare framework moving forward.

The hui aims to bring together expert professional, policy advisory and academic voices on Maori health services and outcomes.

The hui has been supported by the New Zealand Maori Council, the National Hauora Coalition, Pukeroa Oruawhata Inc and Lakes District Health Board.

Minister Nanaia Mahuta and Waiariki MP Tamati Coffey will attend on Friday and Saturday.

The pohiri starts at 6pm on Friday at Tangatarua marae, Rotorua.

The hui is free however you must register your interest for catering purposes at info@mokoia.co.nz or rebekah@annettesykes.com.