Lay summary
Research show that cultural values relating to food generally override healthy eating recommendations with the Samoan community. This study will further explore these relationships with a wider range of Pacific community leaders in New Zealand in order to develop and implement a healthy eating strategy for Pacific peoples. The outcome is to improve the health of Pacific peoples in New Zealand and in other Pacific nations. I will: (1) Discuss the key concepts applicable for a Pacific healthy eating strategy with Pacific leaders; (2) Examine existing health initiatives in other Pacific nations; (3) Develop community-based healthy eating strategy under guidance of Pacific leaders; and (4) Consider how this may inform Pacific Health Policy in New Zealand and contribute to knowledge development and health of Pacific peoples.
I will use grounded theory methodological approach to guide the research and use focus group discussions for data collection.