Moana Vā Founder receives Health Volunteer Award
Vui Suli Tuitaupe, founder of Moana Vā and recipient of the Pacific Health Service Award at the 2026 Minister of Health Volunteer Awards. Photo: World Education News The founder of Moana Vā, a collective supporting MVPFAFF+, LGBTQIA+ and Rainbow+ communities in Christchurch and around the country is the recipient of the Pacific Health Service Award for the Minister of Health Volunteer Awards. Vui Suli Tuitaupe was announced as one of the recipients acknowledged by health minister Simeon Brown and mental health minister Matt Doocey celebrating individuals and groups who make an outstanding contribution to New Zealand’s health system. Vui is a public health researcher, registered nurse, academic currently studying towards a Doctor of Health Sciences at the University of Canterbury as well as a fitness instructor. Minister Brown says, “these awards recognise individuals and groups who go above and beyond to support patients, families, and communities. Their work str...