Chris (left) with MAPmedic students working at events in Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland.

The name ‘MAPmedics’ was adopted in 2022, replacing the original name ‘Polymedics.’ Polymedics was founded by Chris (Jandals) Laufale in 2017 in response to the limited support networks available for Polynesian students within the paramedicine programme at Auckland University of Technology (AUT). During this period, Chris dedicated his time to supporting Māori and Pacific paramedicine students by running tutorials at AUT’s South Campus, starting with a small group of Polynesian students.

Over the years, MAPmedics has grown significantly and is now recognised as an independent charitable organisation known as ‘Māori and Pacific Medics Manatōpū’. It is supported by AUT, Hato Hone St John, former paramedicine tauira and industry experts.