Regional Manager Marks Vaka Tautua’s New Journey

Tagaloa Taima Fagaloa with Dr Amanda-Lanuola Dunlop.

Tagaloa Taima Fagaloa was welcomed as Vaka Tautua’s first-ever Regional Manager for the Wellington and Canterbury regions in Porirua this week. Her appointment, the first of six new management appointments, marks the organisation’s strategic investment in the regions.

“Today is a historic day for our organisation because it marks the next phase in our journey, which is about strengthening our presence in the regions, so we able to respond even more readily to the needs of our Pacific families and communities… and at a local level,” said Vaka Tautua Chief Executive, Dr Amanda-Lanuola Dunlop.

“The Board [of Vaka Tautua] and I are excited about this next phase... and we are thrilled to have someone of Tagaloa’s calibre and experience leading our organisation in the Wellington and Canterbury regions.”

Ms Fagaloa, a senior executive, has over ten years’ experience in the Pacific health sector and strong community and non-government organisational experience. Presently completing a doctorate, she spoke of her vision for Vaka Tautua.

“Together with our families and communities, we can achieve a legacy of prosperity by building on the strengths and aspirations of our Pacific peoples,” said Ms Fagaloa.

“I am honoured and humbled to have been given this opportunity to be part of a dynamic organisation; and look forward to supporting the Vaka Tautua team. It is timely that we consolidate and build our services in Wellington and Christchurch in order to support our communities in times of need.”

Ms Fagaloa will be based in Vaka Tautua’s Wellington office in Porirua, and manage the Wellington and Canterbury operations. Prior to joining Vaka Tautua, she was Executive Director for Capital & Coast District Health Board (CCDHB) Pacific Directorate, where she oversaw its Pacific contracts (2009 - 2019). Previous roles include Porirua City Councillor (2004 - 2010) and Deputy Mayor; and social worker and lecturer (2002 - 2007).

Acting Manager, Linda Allen, was farewelled at the same event. The new management team for Vaka Tautua is expected to be in place on 27 July.

Vaka Tautua is a national Pacific health and social services provider. It delivers disability, mental health, older peoples, financial capability and social services in the greater Auckland, Wellington and Canterbury regions.