At Dental Solutions in Tauranga, we’re proud to support the inspiring work of Trinity Koha Dental Clinic (TKDC). Many of you may know our deep connection to Fiji, where our family has spent countless months over the years. Each visit renews us with sunshine, warm breezes and we get to enjoy the generous spirit of the Fijian people. It is our second home.
Our connection deepened when Bernie volunteered with Smiles for the Pacific, a charity that helped establish a dental clinic within Lautoka Hospital. Trish helped out and they saw how transformed smiles can really improve lives. This sparked our desire to help further.
The YWAM Koha and the TKDC
During an open day of the MV YWAM KOHA, we learned about this ship, gifted to YWAM in 2019 and redesigned as a medical vessel to serve isolated Pacific Island communities. This ship’s custom-built containers—equipped for dental, medical, surgical, and pharmaceutical care—were inspiring. The mission of YWAM Ships Aotearoa (YSA) to bring healthcare to underserved communities resonated with us and aligned with our practice’s values.
Adapting During COVID and Expanding Locally
When the pandemic hit, the YWAM Koha’s mission paused, but the need for dental services did not. The TKDC was born as the YWAM Koha’s mobile clinics were offloaded to New Zealand. Entirely volunteer-run, the clinic continued to care for underserved communities within New Zealand, providing critical oral health care.
Even after borders reopened, TKDC remained active here at home. We’ve witnessed its invaluable impact on New Zealanders facing severe dental distress with limited options. The clinic’s capacity is always maximized, underscoring the immense demand for compassionate dental care.
Our Ongoing Commitment
In recent years, many Dental Solutions team members have volunteered with TKDC. We’ve seen what it means to be “blessed to be a blessing.” The experience is both humbling and rewarding. You may have seen the recent Facebook posts with Matt and Trish completing some time with the clinic in Putaruru.
Between 2021 and 2024, the clinic served 3,445 patients, providing 7,687 services valued at over $2 million. We are proud to be a small part of that.
It’s an opportunity to give back, to build a healthier community, and to honour our connection to the Pacific. Stay tuned for updates on our journey with the clinic!