The annual Pasifika festival is back this weekend at Auckland’s Western Springs Park.
Eight villages are set to showcase the best of 11 Pacific Island nations from food, arts and crafts to traditional and contemporary performances.
Health will also be a priority. Kidney Health New Zealand, a charity dedicated to better kidney health for Kiwis, will also be at the Hub near the Cook Island village, providing free testing for kidney disease as the condition affects at least 1 in 10 people in New Zealand.
National Clinical Manager Merryn Jones says Pasifika people are among high-risk groups being targeted for free testing this month.
“Testing can identify some of the common risk factors for kidney disease, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, as well as kidney disease itself” Jones says.
The check takes about 5 minutes and includes a blood pressure check and a finger prick blood test.
“Early detection means people can better manage their kidney health by doing such things as making lifestyle changes or taking medications for high blood pressure or diabetes that may prevent or slow down the progression of chronic kidney disease”.
Other high-risk groups include Māori, people of South East Asian and Indian descent, and those aged over 60 years.
Kidney Health New Zealand, is doing free tests at events all around the country this month – including at New Zealand Parliament on 12 March. World Kidney Day is on 13 March.
Anyone in New Zealand affected by kidney disease, including relatives, can contact Kidney Health New Zealand’s free helpline from 8.30 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday, on 0800 543 649.
Visit Kidney Health NZ for more information.
