Pacific Research Leadership Takes Center Stage at University of Auckland
The University of Auckland hosted a landmark gathering that highlighted the growing influence of Pacific-led research in shaping health and wellbeing outcomes across Aotearoa New Zealand and the wider Pacific region. Held at the iconic Fale Pasifika on 24 June 2026, the Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa Research Symposium brought together established scholars, emerging researchers, community leaders and international partners to explore practical pathways from insight to action.
This event underscored the University of Auckland’s commitment to transdisciplinary work grounded in Pacific values and community priorities. Participants examined pressing issues including cervical cancer elimination, mental health approaches, climate resilience and the responsible integration of artificial intelligence in healthcare delivery.
Building on a Legacy of Pacific-Centred Inquiry
The Centre for Pacific and Global Health, known as Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa, has steadily expanded its role as a hub for Pacific-focused scholarship at the University of Auckland. The 2026 symposium built directly on previous gatherings, demonstrating how sustained investment in Pacific researchers and methodologies is producing measurable progress in health equity.
Co-directors Professor Sir Collin Tukuitonga and Professor Judith McCool emphasised that Pacific research is maturing rapidly. It is now defined by accountability to communities, cultural grounding and a clear focus on real-world impact rather than remaining on the margins of academic discourse.
Keynote Insights from Regional and Global Experts
Dr Ai Ling Tan CNZM from the University of Sydney delivered the keynote address, drawing on her extensive experience in gynaecological oncology and Pacific public health. She highlighted geography as a persistent barrier to equitable care and called for greater regional capacity in radiotherapy and follow-up services.
Plenary sessions featured Professor Robyn Whittaker of the University of Auckland, who explored artificial intelligence applications in health, stressing the need to address data bias and governance to serve Pacific populations effectively. Dr Corina Grey, Director of Public Health New Zealand and a University of Auckland alumna, closed the day by underscoring the importance of human capabilities such as curiosity and emotional intelligence alongside technological advances.
Women’s Health: Progress Toward Cervical Cancer Elimination
A dedicated panel on eliminating cervical cancer in the Pacific revealed strong community uptake of HPV self-testing, with rates between 79 and 82 percent among Pacific women. Speakers noted that approximately one in ten tests returned positive results, reinforcing the urgency of strengthening treatment pathways.
Facilitated by Dr Audrey Aumua of the Fred Hollows Foundation NZ, the discussion addressed infrastructure gaps and the complexities of overseas referrals. Culturally responsive strategies emerged as essential to sustaining momentum in this critical area of women’s health.
Photo by Daniel Ingersoll on Unsplash
Mental Health Across the Pacific: Relationships at the Core
The mental health panel, led by Pro Vice-Chancellor Pacific Fonoi'a Professor Jemaima Tiatia-Siau, centred on trust, language and cultural context. Research shared from Sāmoa, the Cook Islands and other nations illustrated both the challenges of stigma and the willingness of communities to engage when approached respectfully.
Participants stressed that representative data and long-term capability building depend on authentic partnerships with local leaders. These insights reinforced the value of Pacific-led approaches that prioritise relationships over purely clinical models.
Climate Change and Wellbeing: Interconnected Challenges
Facilitated by Li’amanaia Dr Roannie Ng Shiu, the climate crisis panel examined how rising seas and extreme weather already affect Pacific mental and physical health. Speakers called for holistic responses that recognise the deep connections between land, ocean, identity and wellbeing.
The discussion highlighted the strain on healthcare systems and the need for community-driven resilience strategies. This session illustrated how Pacific researchers are leading conversations that link environmental change directly to health policy and practice.
Artificial Intelligence in Pacific Health Contexts
Professor Robyn Whittaker’s plenary address explored predictive analytics, machine vision and generative AI as tools for improving access and outcomes. She emphasised the risks of bias and data limitations while outlining governance frameworks that could ensure equitable benefits for Pacific communities.
Attendees engaged with questions around ethical deployment and the preservation of human oversight in increasingly automated systems. The conversation positioned the University of Auckland as a leader in integrating technological innovation with cultural values.
Implications for Higher Education and Research Training
The symposium demonstrated clear demand for dedicated Pacific spaces within New Zealand universities. Emerging researchers gained visibility alongside senior leaders, signalling a pipeline of talent that will strengthen Pacific representation in academia and health professions.
Co-director Professor Sir Collin Tukuitonga noted that the next generation must inherit systems that are more just and responsive. The event reinforced the University of Auckland’s role in fostering culturally grounded research training that translates directly into community benefit.
Photo by Nathan Karsgaard on Unsplash
Future Outlook and Collaborative Pathways
Closing reflections emphasised alignment of efforts across the region. With a youthful and growing Pacific population in Aotearoa, the need for a representative health workforce and responsive research agenda is urgent.
The symposium’s success points to sustained momentum for Pacific-led initiatives. Continued investment in centres such as Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa will be critical to translating insights into lasting health improvements across the Moana.
