The past few years have been busy for Pete Whalley. 

The new Active Southland Active Lifestyles manager has been in the army, completed a degree in Exercise Science, post graduate studies and his masters in health science, and more recently, worked in the public health space on the Covid response. 

“It was a very busy time.” 

While the previous jobs and experiences were enjoyable, his passion lies in the preventative side of health, so when the role came up at Active Southland overseeing Green Prescription, Active Families, and Toku Oranga, he decided to make the change. 

“I believe good health should be free and accessible to all. The question is how do we get healthy and stay healthy? What are those things that influence our health day to day and how do we work with that (to improve our health outcomes)?” 

Green Prescription and Active Families are both free lifestyle programmes designed to help families and individuals to lead healthier, more active lives. Toku Oranga is a GP practice-based service helping patients better understand their health needs and journeys, to connect with relevant support agencies in the community, and to help unravel the sometimes many tricky and confusing aspects that can come with maximising health outcomes. 

“This role is very much centred on what I am passionate about, when it comes to ensuring and supporting the good health of our community.”  

In his spare time you will find Pete giving most outdoor activities a go – he is particularly keen on tramping with his wife Erica, paddle boarding, and surfing, and he is an avid fan of playing hockey, taking part in marathons and even ultra marathons. 

Cooking is another hobby, and you’ll often find him manning the barbecue or putting together a gastronomic creation for friends. 

Article added: Friday 27 May 2022