Diane Koti is an expert in Indigenous development, Kaupapa development, Kaupapa Māori Research, psychology, and mental health. She is a passionate leader who works for fair, holistic, and whānau-centred health outcomes.
Diane's health career began in 2007, with her primary interest being Māori health and mental health. She then went on to pursue her doctoral studies at Te Kunenga Ki Pūrehuroa Massey University, focusing on how current end-of-life care can better incorporate the needs of Māori patients and whānau.
She is now enrolled as a Doctor of Health candidate at Victoria University, exploring mental health and well-being. Her leadership in healthcare ensures that future planning of hauora will embody the needs of Māori and be grounded in Te Ao Māori. She focuses on changes based on Tangata Whenua, Te Reo Māori, and Kaupapa Māori practises.
Within her mahi, Diane is aware of the current lack of Māori staff in both clinical and non-clinical advisory roles. Her research centres around using Māori models of care based on Kaupapa Māori principles. Her ultimate dream is to establish a Kaupapa Māori end-of-life care facility in honour of her grandmother, which is mindful of the care needed for whānau and the community on the East Coast. She is also looking at the use of diving practices in the realms of mental well-being.
Diane is currently the General Manager of Localities and Acting General Manager Oranga Hinengaro, where she is assisting with the establishment and development of Localities and Oranga Hinengaro at Te Aka Whai Ora. These areas focus on Māori mental health and development for people of all ages and their whānau.
Diane is an experienced leader with a demonstrated history of working in the health sector. She is inspired by how iwi Māori care for, manaaki, and support whānau in need. She hopes her work will lead to health care based on Mātauranga Māori providing care that addresses the needs of our communities.
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