Waimaria Awa

As a registered nurse, Waimaria (Ngati Ranginui, Ngai te Rangi, Ngati Makino) brings a deep sense of purpose to her role as a health improvement practitioner.

Her journey into healthcare was shaped by what she witnessed as a child - her whānau experiencing inequalities, a formative experience that fuels her commitment to equitable care. Combining education with mātauranga Māori, Waimaria works to uplift tangata whenua through better awareness and empowered health outcomes.

Waimaria’s passions centre on Māori health outcomes, whānau-centred care and supporting high-needs populations. She’s deeply engaged in community outreach and takes an interest in the structures - both local and national - that govern how health is delivered.

When she’s not clinically focused, Waimaria loves being outdoors - whether hiking through the bush or spending time by water - and treasures every moment with friends and whānau. She also enjoys cooking, travelling, volunteering, and supporting hapū and iwi events in her community. These places and experiences keep her grounded and she returns to work inspired and energised.