Free Dental Day at Te Tomairangi Marae

On 30 September 2025, Map My Mouth proudly partnered with Ngā Kete Mātauranga Pounamu Charitable Trust and the Dental for All campaign to deliver a Free Dental Day for the Invercargill community, held at Te Tomairangi Marae in Murihiku.

Whānau were offered free dental check-ups, X-rays, oral health advice, and referral pathways in a safe, welcoming marae environment. Priority was given to those who struggle to afford care and those eligible for Southern Charity Hospital support.

This kaupapa reflects the Dental for All vision of free, universal, Te Tiriti-consistent oral healthcare. Currently, over 40% of adults avoid dental care due to cost, contributing to unnecessary pain, reduced wellbeing, and widening inequities. The wider impact is also economic — poor dental access costs Aotearoa more than $6 billion each year in lost productivity, sick days, and preventable health conditions.

Alongside clinical care, a community kōrero explored what a fair and equitable oral health system could look like for future generations, grounded in Māori-led solutions and tino rangatiratanga.

This day was more than a pop-up clinic. It offered a glimpse of the future Aotearoa could have — one where oral health is accessible, equitable, and treated as essential healthcare.

Thank you to everyone who made this day possible. Special thanks to Kane Johnston and Robyn Welsh, and to Dental for All and the Clare Foundation for funding this important roadshow across the motu.

🔗 Learn more and get involved: www.dentalforall.nz