Aotea Health has been the heart of healthcare on Great Barrier Island since its founding in August 1994 by three dedicated pioneers: rural nurses Adele Robertson, Leonie Howie, and Leonie’s late husband, Dr. Ivan Howie.
Together, this industrious trio laid the foundation for what has become an indispensable community health service, providing cradle-to-grave healthcare for over 30 years. With clinics based in Claris and Port Fitzroy, Aotea Health has continuously advocated for equitable healthcare, particularly for rural communities.
From humble beginnings—operating out of a caravan—Aotea Health has grown into a busy community health centre and satellite clinic, weathering numerous healthcare reforms, working under eight different prime ministers (so far), and navigating a constantly evolving health system. Throughout it all, Adele, Leonie, and Ivan have been unwavering in their commitment, advocating for their island community and sharing their vast knowledge through writing about rural healthcare practice.
Their contributions have earned them respect throughout all corners of New Zealand.
The Great Barrier Island Community Health Trust has been a key partner, working closely with Aotea Health to provide essential facilities and equipment. This collaboration enables the team to focus on what they do best: delivering the healthcare services that this remote island community needs.
Our mission remains steadfast: to offer an innovative, multi-disciplinary, culturally sensitive primary health and disability support service that is accessible and affordable. We are committed to ensuring that the residents and visitors of Aotea Great Barrier Island are not disadvantaged by their isolation from the mainland and are supported in maintaining optimal health. We proudly uphold article two of Te Tiriti O’ Waitangi, recognizing that health is a taonga (treasured possession) deserving of protection.
A New Era – 2023 and Beyond
In July 2023, Aotea Health began a new chapter under the ownership of Tania and Darcy Kemp. Tania, an experienced rural Nurse Practitioner with a background in the Chatham Islands, West Coast, and South Canterbury, brings over a decade of leadership in general practice and is a former Chair of the New Zealand Nursing Council. Her dedication to rural healthcare and the nursing profession is complemented by Darcy’s diverse expertise in IT, commercial fishing, and education, along with his 10 years as a practice manager.
Together, Tania and Darcy are committed to continuing and growing the legacy of Aotea Health, ensuring that the island community receives the high-quality, compassionate healthcare it deserves.
