Mereana Waaka-Murch

Mereana began her healthcare journey training as a nurse at North Shore Hospital before life took her to Australia for several years. After the passing of her mother, Wahine Tapu, she returned home to fulfil her mother’s wish that she complete her nursing training. She went on to train as a Comprehensive Nurse at Waiariki Polytechnic in Rotorua, graduating in 1993, and carries her mother’s influence with her in her work supporting and awhi’ing others.

Her main areas of interest include diabetes, long-term conditions, cancer and any illness that impacts whānau health and wellbeing. Mereana is passionate about improving access to timely, affordable care so that people can stay well in their communities. She feels honoured when whai ora entrust her to walk alongside them and finds it deeply rewarding to see people reach their health goals and strengthen their overall wellbeing.

Outside of work, whānau comes first for Mereana. She loves spending time with her seven mokopuna and two great-moko, swimming with Tangaroa, walking in the ngahere with Tāne Mahuta, and standing in the breeze to let Tāwhirimātea clear her wairua and restore her energy.