3 Apr 2020

Northland iwi establish coronavirus testing centre

7:15 pm on 3 April 2020

Northland iwi Ngāpuhi have launched a coronavirus testing station in Kaikohe.

There are 12 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in Northland and one probable case. None are in hospital.

No caption

Photo: AFP

The testing station on Mangakahia Road is run by Te Hau Ora ō Ngāpuhi alongside Broadway Health and opened on Friday morning.

The station can carry out tests and staff will also offer social support if needed.

See all RNZ coverage of Covid-19

Te Rūnanga ā iwi o Ngāpuhi chief executive Te Ropu Poa said her staff have been working hard to get the testing station off the ground.

"This is all about helping our whānau. We all need to work together and support one

another during this very difficult time."

Te Rūnanga o Ngāpuhi chairwoman Mere Mangu said in order for "the sacred house of Ngāpuhi to stand strong, we must collaborate".

Takahitia Korowira, or Stamp Out COVID19, is a Ngāpuhi pandemic response strategy, led by Dr Marise Stuart and Tia Ashby.

Its team has also delivered kai and water to its people.

Read more about the Covid-19 coronavirus: