The Tauranga-based medical aid ship YWAM KOHA is ready to embark on its next mission, setting sail this coming month for Fiji and the small island nation of Tuvalu.

Over the next six months, the ship will extend its medical services to these regions, aiming to make a significant impact on the health of thousands.

Director Marty Emmett expressed his gratitude to the vast network of partners and supporters who have made this journey possible.

“We anticipate our health teams will touch the lives of thousands, a feat made possible by the vast network of partners and supporters who are integral to this KOHA journey. Thank you, Koha family,” Emmett said.

The YWAM KOHA is set to leave Tauranga harbour at midday on Friday, May 2. Photo/Supplied.

After months of dedicated effort from the crew and an incredible team of volunteers, the ship is buzzing with activity as preparations for the voyage are finalised.

Emmett said by Tuesday evening, a full complement of exceptional mariners would be on board, and the galley team is stocking final provisions to ensure the crew is well-nourished for the months ahead.

On Wednesday afternoon, the mariners fuelled the vessel with 50,000 litres before setting the course for Suva, Fiji.

Tauranga dental nurse Sharon Dawson at work onboard the YWAM Koha in Fiji. Photo / Supplied.

Over the past four years, more than 12,000 people have received health services they couldn’t access otherwise. Over 30,000 services have been delivered at no cost. Emmett said the vision for 2025 is to believe for more.

The YWAM KOHA team has three main goals including expanding the reach from Fiji into Tuvalu.

“A brand-new location with new people to serve and partnerships making it possible.”

For years YWAM ships have been a bridge between resources and communities in need.

“In 2025 we are growing that impact. More access, more services and more lives changed. Every life changed is because of generosity.”

There are roles for dentists, engineers, nurses, mariners, cooks and volunteers to help.

Emmett extended heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has prayed, volunteered, and contributed financially.

“You are making it possible to further our mission to empower health in remote villages and communities across the Pacific. Each deployment of the YWAM KOHA is a testament to divine intervention, and this week is no exception,” he said.

In early March, an appeal was launched to raise $250,000 to ensure the vessel could return to the Pacific. Emmett shared the exciting news that they are just $50,000 away from reaching their goal. “We still have a small funding need for deployment,” he said.

The YWAM Koha on deployment in Fiji. Photo / Supplied

Emmett encouraged those who haven’t yet contributed to consider donating this week to cover the last major expense: the fuel bill for bunkering.

 “Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for considering this partnership in our final push,” he said. Donors can contribute by visiting YWAM Ships Aotearoa’s donation page.

Emmett said the vessel will be leaving the Port of Tauranga in the coming days.

“If you want to wave the ship off follow YWAM Ship’s social media for updates.”

Trinity Koha Dental Outreach on the East Coast

The third main goal for 2025 is to improve oral health in New Zealand, with over 4000 people already helped. Clinics are lined up for the East Coast, Bay of Plenty, South Waikato and Auckland regions.

“We need dentists, dental assistants and volunteers to help make it happen.”

 The Trinity Koha Dental team treated over 180 locals on the East Coast, in partnership with Turanga Health. Photo/Supplied.

The Trinity Koha Dental team recently completed a significant outreach on the East Coast, centred around Gisborne. In partnership with Turanga Health, the team treated over 180 locals.

The optical team from the OneSight EssilorLuxottica Optometry team joined them for a week of the outreach providing a free appointment to 707 people.

The optical team from the OneSight EssilorLuxottica Optometry joined the Trinity Koha Dental team on the East Coast for a week providing a free appointment to 707 people. Photo/Supplied.

Emmett praised the team’s efforts, highlighting the positive feedback from local partners and the real impact on the community.

“The feedback from our local partners was so encouraging. You would be proud of the TKDC team and the work that they do, meeting the real needs of Kiwis.”

A video showcasing the outreach’s impact in the East Coast region can be viewed here: