Public healthcare shouldn’t need a bake sale, but here we are
We spent World Health Day running a bake sale in Midland Park.
Which is funny. And also not funny at all.
The idea was pretty simple. If something important isn’t being properly funded, communities tend to step in. Schools do it. Sports clubs do it. And now, apparently, so do we for public healthcare.
People got it straight away.
They stopped by for some of our yummy baking, had a chat, and told us what they’re seeing and feeling - everyone has a story about people they know or even themselves, with overworked staff, long waits, infrastructure and tech problems to name a few.
And while it wasn’t a fundraiser in any real sense. It was definitely a visual experience. We even had The Brass Razoo Solidarity Band set up and play for us - such a vibe!
By the time we packed up, we’d had dozens of conversations. The kind that don’t always make the news, but it’s pretty clear people care about public healthcare and can see it’s under strain.
Later that evening, we took that conversation indoors.
A strong crowd turned up to St Andrew’s on The Terrace to hear from Louisa Wall, Fleur Fitzsimons, Dr Malcolm Mulholland, Luca Zampese, and Kassie Hartendorp about what’s actually going on in the system, and what needs to change.
It was really clear across both of our events that people aren’t confused about the problem!
They just want to see it taken seriously.
Kaitiaki Hauora is calling for:
Fund public health properly – so everyone gets care when they need it.
Honour Te Tiriti – ensuring Māori lead on equity in the health system.
Keep healthcare public – so care stays for people, not profit.
This wasn’t about raising money. And judging by the turnout, the conversations, and the level of interest, people are paying attention.
If a bake sale makes the point land, we’ll bring the baking. But we’d rather see the funding.
You can watch the recording of our meeting at St Andrew’s on The Terrace here
