Meet Tineke
Tineke is a nurse and clinical coordinator at Regional Public Health. Her role is currently based at the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR).
"I have worked with some of the most vulnerable members in our communities," said Tineke. "I understand how poverty can impact on the health of whānau, and I am very aware of the health disparities that exist."
Tineke will be leading the Nursing and Phlebotomy ESR team in the WellKiwis Study over the next three years. The study aims to help find a more effective and longer-lasting flu vaccination.
“We hope to contribute our research towards the development of a universal flu vaccine. We want a vaccine that is accessible to all, especially those most in need."
The study follow participants and their children for seven years.
"We get to know the families quite well during those years. If any of our families are in need, we can help by referring them to local community support services."
Tineke's team also work closely with local Māori and Pacific providers. The providers help her team make sure that all populations are engaged in the study.
"It is really important for us to make sure we have a strong cohort. We need to represent all our communities."
Poll: How should Guy Fawkes be celebrated?
While it is a fun occasion, fireworks on Guy Fawkes Night has caused much conflict over the years, upsetting our pets and disrupting the sleep of neighbours.
How should we celebrate Guy Fawkes Night? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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27.9% With a city-wide public fireworks display
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20.5% Small fireworks displays in each community
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7.7% Keep it as is
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32.7% We shouldn't celebrate it!
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10.8% Anything but fireworks
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0.4% Other - I'll share below
Solve This Riddle or Be Left Scratching Your Head!
With pointed fangs, I sit and wait;
with piercing force, I crunch out fate.
I grab victims, proclaiming might,
and physically join with a single bite.
What am I?
Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.
Want to stop seeing riddles in your newsfeed?
Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.
Celebrating International Volunteer Managers Day
We had a wonderful morning celebrating Te Whanganui-a-Tara volunteer managers at our International Volunteer Managers Day breakfast event.
It was inspiring to bring together local change-makers to discuss this year's theme: 'what's our future normal?' We shared reflections and aspirations for how we can play a role in shaping a stronger and brighter future for the voluntary sector.
Thank you so much to our generous sponsors Lighthouse Cinema, t leaf T, The Candle Shop, Wonderland Chocolate, Zealandia and Oat Cafe.
Amazing catering provided by Blue Carrot