Wellness Week: TSI Breast Screening Event at Westfield Manukau a Success

As part of Auckland Council’s Wellness Week, the Breast Screening Mobile Unit made its way to Westfield Manukau from Tuesday 29 April to Friday 2 May — and what a week it was!

With a dedicated time slot between 11am–1pm for Auckland Council kaimahi, the event saw a steady flow of wāhine taking proactive steps for their hauora. Many noted how convenient and accessible it was to drop in during work hours — removing one more barrier to regular screening.

We intentionally brought the mobile unit to South Auckland, a traditionally underserved area where many of our whānau work shifts that make it difficult to attend set appointments. By removing some of these barriers — like travel, timing, and referrals — we made it easier for wāhine to prioritise their hauora on their own terms.

We were proud to partner with Te Whatu Ora Health NZ, who also had their Cervical and Bowel Screening team onsite Thursday and Friday. This created a one-stop health hub that made it easier than ever to kōrero, ask questions, and book in for these important checks.

A huge mihi to Mira Rao Su’a from Community & Social Innovation for coordinating bookings and supporting kaimahi throughout the week. And of course, thank you to Westfield Manukau for hosting us and everyone who helped promote the Kaupapa, including Te Roopu Wahine at Auckland Council.

 “I was so pleased we were able to make the event happen. Testing was quick, the staff were warm, and reassuring. I was rapt to see a few council colleagues make the time to get tested’.

Over the four days, about 38 women were screened — a fantastic turnout that shows what’s possible when health services come to the community.

This event reminded us all: when we remove the obstacles, our people show up. Let’s continue creating more moments like this, where health equity, community, and care come together.