A major new chapter in Māori-led healthcare is beginning in Dannevirke, with Rangitāne o Tamaki nui-ā-Rua announcing the establishment of tini whetū Health and Wellbeing Centre, bringing together iwi leadership, clinical expertise and a commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of whānau.
The new centre will officially open its doors on Tuesday, October 27, following the finalisation of an agreement to acquire the general practice previously operating as Dr Short’s Surgery.
The initiative is a partnership between Te Kete Hauora o Rangitāne Ltd and Dr Michael J and Andrea Short, designed to strengthen the continuity and reach of primary healthcare across Dannevirke and surrounding communities.
Importantly, the transition is expected to take place without any interruption to existing medical services.
A New Era of Iwi-Led Healthcare
The establishment of tini whetū represents an important step towards a more connected, culturally grounded approach to healthcare, combining the clinical experience of the Short whānau with the mana, manaakitanga and enduring presence of Rangitāne as mana whenua.
The centre takes its name from the Rangitāne whakataukī, tini whetū ki te rangi, ko Rangitāne ki te whenua, reflecting the many stars in the sky and the collective strength of Rangitāne on the land.
Its guiding philosophy is built around the belief that improving health outcomes requires the combined efforts of whānau, medical professionals, iwi, community organisations and support services.
The centre will operate under a Constellation of Care approach, bringing together healthcare and community partners to provide more connected and holistic support.
Four key pou will guide its development: legacy, succession, community and quality of life.
Together, they reflect a commitment to building a health service that will support current generations while creating a lasting foundation for those who follow.
New Leadership and Continuity of Care
Sheryll Hoera has been appointed Business Manager of tini whetū, bringing experience, skills and community connections to the role.
The partnership is intended to preserve the longstanding contribution of Dr Short’s Surgery while creating opportunities to strengthen services and community relationships.
For Rangitāne, the initiative also reflects the importance of mana whenua having a meaningful role in shaping healthcare delivery within their rohe.
The centre’s development comes amid ongoing national discussions about Māori health equity, access to primary care and the importance of healthcare services that respond to the needs of local communities.
Whānau Invited to Celebrate
The new centre will open on Tuesday, October 27, with enrolment forms available from Monday, October 26.
A community celebration and open day will be held on Friday, October 30, at 9.15am, at Rangitāne Square, 91 High Street, Dannevirke.
Whānau, community organisations and local stakeholders are invited to attend and celebrate the beginning of this new chapter.
The announcement has been endorsed by Mavis Mullins, Acting General Manager of Te Kete Hauora o Rangitāne; Teeny Lowe, Chair of Te Kete Hauora o Rangitāne; and Aaron Karena, Chair of the Rangitāne o Tamaki nui-ā-Rua Charitable Trust.
Centre Information
tini whetū Health and Wellbeing Centre
- Opening: Tuesday, 27 October 2026
- Enrolments: Available from Monday, 26 October
- Website: www.tiniwhetu.co.nz
- Phone: 06 374 8892
- Email: contactus@tiniwhetu.co.nz
- Community open day: Friday, 30 October, 9.15am
- Open day venue: Rangitāne Square, 91 High Street, Dannevirke
The opening of tini whetū marks a new partnership in local primary healthcare, combining the legacy of an established medical practice with Rangitāne aspirations for a healthier, more connected community.
Many people, many strengths, one shared purpose — improving quality of life for whānau and future generations.
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