Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa – Centre for Pacific and Global Health at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland – has appointed seven Honorary Senior Research Fellows, recognising distinguished Pacific and global health leaders whose expertise will strengthen research, teaching, and impact across Aotearoa New Zealand and the wider Pacific region.
The appointments were formally announced at the Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa Research Symposium, held at the Fale Pasifika on Wednesday 24 June.
The newly appointed Honorary Senior Research Fellows are:
Dr Siale ‘Akauola, Associate Professor Donald Wilson, Dr Si Thu Win Tin, Metuakore Bates, Fiugalu Tevita Funaki MNZM, Lucy Cassels, and Dr Basil Leodoro.
- Dr Siale ‘Akauola is a Tongan pathologist and former Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Health Tonga, and former Minister for Health.
- Associate Professor Donald Wilson is a public health physician and epidemiologist, currently Executive Director Research & Innovation at Fiji National University, with extensive experience across communicable and non-communicable diseases, planetary health, and health policy.
- Dr Si Thu Win Tin is Deputy Director of the Public Health Division at SPC (the Pacific Community), widely recognised for translating research into policy and practice across Pacific Island countries and territories.
- Metuakore Bates is Director of Public Health at Te Marae Ora in the Cook Islands, with decades of leadership across Pacific health systems, governance, and community development.
- Fiugalu Tevita Funaki MNZM is Chief Executive of The Fono Trust and a nationally recognised Pasifika health leader, honoured for services to Pacific health and wellbeing.
- Lucy Cassels is an experienced global health policy specialist and former senior diplomat, with expertise in climate change, global health diplomacy, and Pacific-focused policy development.
- Dr Basil Leodoro is a Vanuatu-based general surgeon with extensive regional and international training, recognised for leadership in surgical services and emergency response.
Co-Director Professor Sir Collin Tukuitonga says the appointments reflect Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa’s commitment to strengthening Pacific health research and leadership.
“These Fellows bring deep expertise and strong connections across the region. Their contribution will support the development of emerging Pacific researchers, strengthen partnerships, and ensure that research is translated into policy and practice that benefits Pacific communities.”
Through their honorary roles, the Fellows will contribute to mentoring emerging Pacific researchers, building regional and international research partnerships, and advancing knowledge that responds directly to the needs and aspirations of Pacific peoples.
Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa looks forward to the collective impact of these appointments in advancing Pacific health outcomes locally, regionally, and globally.
Press Release from the University of Auckland
