On Saturday, burdened by a persistent toothache, a Porirua single mum of two boys faced the daunting challenge of finding after-hours care while juggling a demanding full-time job.

As she grappled with the persistent gnawing pain of a toothache, the weight of financial strain added an extra layer of complexity. The tough choices she faced involved sacrificing her rent payment for dental care or forfeiting a long-awaited holiday to Taupo—a dream she had carefully saved for, a chance to create cherished memories with her boys.

Porirua mobilises - a collective push for oral health through community action

By chance, she walked into the Ora Toa clinic in Cannons Creek, a stranger among over 70 volunteers who had come together to offer their time and expertise. Dentists, dental assistants, hygienists, and kaimanaaki, all dedicating their weekend to serve the community.

Their collective commitment transformed the clinic into a sanctuary, a place where the heart of the Porirua community beat stronger than ever.

In a matter of minutes, the young mum found herself in a dental chair, surrounded by a team of professionals who, touched by a spirit of generosity, set aside their time to provide care. Volunteers worked seamlessly to offer not just relief from physical pain but also a reprieve from the weight of financial burdens. In that moment, the clinic became a testament to the power of authentic community-driven initiatives, where individuals and professionals rallied to address a pressing need.

The inception of this initiative was not by chance but rooted in a place-based approach—a recognition that the unique needs of Porirua required tailored solutions. Driven by whānau voice, the initiative was shaped by the voices and priorities of the community, ensuring that their input was not only heard but also acted upon.

 “..its about validating our community’s concerns and delivering what they need..”

“In Te Wāhi Tiaki Tātou, our community’s voice guides our every step. This initiative is a testament to the power of listening and responding. We heard the challenges our whānau faced in accessing oral health care, and we were committed to delivering solutions,” said program lead, Anita Taggart. 

“It’s not just about providing a service; it’s about validating our community’s concerns and delivering what they need. This is the first step in our commitment to a larger strategy aimed at elevating the oral health of Porirua”.  

907 Treatments, 338 Patients, 70+ Volunteers!

These numbers were more than just statistics; they represented the dedication of the volunteers who made this day happen, and the locality, Te Wāhi Tiaki Tātou, who drove the initiative. Beyond metrics, they showcased a community's collective heartbeat, pulsating with genuine compassion and a shared commitment to the well-being of Porirua. In treating individuals, they were not just addressing oral health issues; they were building bridges toward a healthier, and more connected community.