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Kaitaia GP Lance O’Sullivan has been named New Zealander of the Year for his innovative approach to healthcare in the far north.
Judges for the Kiwibank-sponsored award cited his low-cost health clinic Te Kohanga Whakaora or The Nest of Wellness, and Manawa Ora Korokoro Ora, a full time school-based health clinic at Kaitaia Primary School which provides medical care to 2000 children at 14 primary and intermediate schools.
Dr O’Sullivan also initiated the Kainga Ora Well Home initiative to make run-down homes in the community warm and safe, promoting wellness.
Chief judge Cameron Bennett says passion, drive and unwavering commitment to eradicating poverty related illnesses are exactly the kind of qualities the awards look for.
The Young New Zealander of the Year was Samoan dancer and choreographer Parris Goebel, whose medal-winning forays to the World Hip Hop Dance championships has led to career opportunities not just for her but for many of the young Maori and Pacific Island dancers she works with.
Copyright © 2014, UMA Broadcasting Ltd
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