A local initiative to get flu and Covid-19 help to the most vulnerable in South Wairarapa is gathering momentum.

The kits are the brainchild of two local women, Sandy Ngamoki and Teresa Dawson, who saw the need and wanted to make a difference.

After approaching various parties starting with the local GPs, they established that there were indeed many people in the community who did not have the means or access to simple aids to help with the pandemic and flu season.

They are still waiting for most of the funding but already with the help of donations from Te Whatu Ora (formerly DHB Wairarapa), and their own resources, they have managed to get out about 195 packs for distribution to Kuranui College, Martinborough and Paetūmokai Medical Centres.

The kits contain tissues, RAT tests, a thermometer, lozenges, chest rub and masks.

Ibuprofen and Panadol are available on request to their local GPS/Medical Centres, and whanau may also borrow pulse oximeters from the Medical Centres.

Sandy says they were driven by what they have seen around them, particularly local whanau who often live remotely or are disadvantaged in terms of money or health.

“The aim is to provide these survival kits free of charge,” she said.

As summer approaches and case numbers fall, she and Theresa are hoping to “go back into retirement”. “Once we get through the cold period, people’s health should be on the up”.

“But at the moment, we’re feeling that the schools really need the support because of their populations and given the volume of absenteeism of staff and children.

“With our next distribution, we’re going to target Martinborough and Te Kura o Paetūmokai (Featherston school).

“It is hoped that Paetūmokai will distribute some kits to St Theresa and South Featherston Schools. We will also send more to Martinborough Medical Centre and Kuranui College as we are able. We also hope to be able to distribute kits to the elderly and church congregations in our communities.”

Hau Ariki marae, where the pair are based, received wellness packs from Whaiora. These have been shared between Featherston Foodbank and Martinborough Foodbanks.

If you would like to help Sandy and Teresa’s survival kit project, koha are being received through REAP (please contact Sandy for the account number at  Sandy.Ngamoki@gmail.com).

You will need to put in the following details: the recipient (SWCCESK), the payer (your name), the amount of the donation. These details help REAP track incoming and outgoing transactions.