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Story: Pacific Island health

Managing diabetes

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Managing diabetes

In 2007 51-year-old Vaiaeri Vaevae (left) had Type 2 diabetes. With an improved diet, more exercise and the help of his pastor, Alfred Ngaro (right), he lost 14 kilograms. He then organised a Cook Island exercise class which combined Pacific and modern aerobic moves. Vaiaeri now looked forward to a healthier, prolonged life, and to being around for his grandchildren.

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New Zealand Herald

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How to cite this page

Colin Tukuitonga, Pacific Island health – Diseases and disabilities, Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, https://teara.govt.nz/en/photograph/27756/managing-diabetes (accessed 4 June 2026).

Story by Colin Tukuitonga, published 17 February 2011, updated 9 January 2019.