09/10/2026
A legacy honoured, a new chapter begun.
On Saturday, 26 September we officially opened and blessed the new South Seas Healthcare Ōamaru clinic at 32 Ribble Street. It was a proud and moving day for our Pacific community and for all of Waitaki.
This milestone stands on the shoulders of the founding members of the Ōamaru Pacific Island Trust. Years ago, they saw the needs of Pacific families settling in Ōamaru and chose to act. They gave their time, their faith and their aroha to build a place where our people could belong, connect and thrive. What began with their vision has grown into a trusted organisation serving families across the district. This clinic is the fruit of the seeds they planted.
To our founding members: Fa’afetai tele lava, malō ‘aupito, vinaka vakalevu. Your legacy lives on in every family this clinic will care for.
The clinic is a partnership between Ōamaru Pacific Island Trust and our clinical partner, South Seas Healthcare Trust. Together, we’re bringing quality, culturally grounded primary care closer to home. The blessing of the building, our staff and our services carried the prayers and hopes of everyone who has worked to bring this vision to life.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Te Rūnanga o Moeraki for their support and for welcoming us as mana whenua. We also acknowledge and thank Te Kaika for their support.
Thank you as well to:
•Her Worship the Mayor, Melanie Tavendale, for officially opening the clinic.
•Pastor Asafo Te’o and Rev Lakepa Finau, for leading us in prayer and blessing.
•Te Matahiapo Kapa Haka, Ōamaru Intermediate School, Waitaki Girls’ High School, for their outstanding performances
•Our Chairs, Maiele Paia and Hon Aupito William Sio
•The wider community of people, providers and supporters who came along to celebrate with us.
This clinic belongs to Waitaki. Our doors are open, we look forward to caring for you and your families.
32 Ribble Street, Ōamaru
