Mataroria Lyndon

Senior Lecturer in Medical Education, University of Auckland
Ngāti Kahu, Ngāpuhi, Ngati Wai, Ngati Whātua, Tainui

I am a practicing clinician, academic, and advocate for Māori. Growing up, I wanted to make a difference for people living in the most deprived areas in Aotearoa New Zealand, namely South Auckland and Northland - my communities. I have seen the health disparities between Māori and non-Māori. In being a champion for public health, I strive to address the poorer health of Māori while honouring the legacy of my elders.

My journey within and beyond the University of Auckland has enabled me to combine my cultural values and identity with medical research. As an undergraduate, I discovered my passion for public health; my PhD research focuses on Māori and Pacific students’ motivations for becoming doctors and the challenges they face during medical school. I have worked as a Fellow and a Clinical Lead at Ko Awatea at Counties Manukau DHB. I have recently returned from Harvard University in the United States, where I completed a Master of Public Health as a Fulbright and a Frank Knox scholar.

Through all these experiences, my whānau and iwi have provided the support to achieve my goals - but I know many are less fortunate. I want to support and instil hope in young Māori that they can succeed.

"Ko tou rourou, ko toku rourou ka ora ai te iwi - with your contribution and my contribution there lies wellbeing for the people.” In our quest for health equity, we can continue to narrow the health gaps.