Pharmacy Technician – Kaihangarau Rongoā

Our Whānau Career Story

Oceana-Breeze Maia Kaponga – Pharmacy Technician 

Where do I work and what do I do?

Pharmacy Technician- Moturoa Pharmacy
I’m proud to work at Moturoa Pharmacy as a qualified Pharmacy Technician, where every day brings something new and meaningful. My role combines technical skill, critical thinking, and genuine care for our community.

As a Pharmacy Technician, I support our pharmacists by preparing and dispensing medicines, checking prescriptions, and managing stock to make sure every patient receives safe, accurate, and timely care. I also work with advanced dispensing technology to prepare blister packs for patients, making it easier for them to take their medicines correctly and on time. Some pharmacies also provide sachet packing systems, which offer a similar kind of personalised medication service.

Beyond the technical side, I love the human connection that comes with community pharmacy. I get to know our patients personally, help them understand their medicines, and guide them toward products that can improve their wellbeing. It’s a role that blends science with compassion, and no two days are ever the same.

What was my career pathway to get where I am / and what led me to this?

My journey started at Spotswood College, where I joined Rapuara Hauora through Why Ora. Through Mātaki Shadowing, I explored a range of health careers, from physiotherapy to occupational therapy to pharmacy, and discovered how much I enjoyed working in a space that helps people live healthier lives.

I initially studied nursing, but due to health reasons, I had to change direction. That’s when I found my passion for pharmacy. Having family members who were Pharmacy Technicians gave me a glimpse into the variety and purpose of the job, and the more I learned, the more it clicked that this was where I was meant to be.

I studied through the Open Polytechnic while gaining hands-on experience in pharmacy, which helped me build the skills and knowledge I use every day. Now, as a qualified technician, I see just how vital our role is in supporting pharmacists and the wider healthcare system.

I also plan to continue my studies to further enhance my knowledge and broaden my capabilities as a technician. The pharmacy world is constantly evolving, from new medicines and technologies to emerging healthcare services and I want to stay at the forefront of those changes. Expanding my skills will allow me to take on new challenges, open more career opportunities, and ultimately make an even bigger difference in the lives of the people I serve.

“My why” for doing this job and making a difference for Māori

Being a Pharmacy Technician allows me to connect my love for science, learning, and helping people. I’m constantly gaining knowledge, not only about medicines, but also about how diet, lifestyle, and other factors can influence health and healing. Many people take medications without fully understanding what they do. I find real purpose in helping patients make sense of their treatment, explaining their options, and ensuring they feel supported and confident. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how education and empathy can empower someone to take control of their own health.

For Māori, I want to show that healthcare careers are achievable and rewarding, and that pharmacy is an exciting and impactful pathway. Representation matters. When people see someone like them in these spaces, it helps break barriers and opens doors for future generations.

Why we need more Pharmacy Technicians in Aotearoa.

Pharmacy Technicians play a crucial role in the healthcare system, yet many people don’t even know this career exists. There aren’t enough trained technicians in New Zealand, and that shortage impacts how quickly and efficiently pharmacies can support their communities.

It’s a profession that deserves more awareness. It’s technical, hands-on, people-focused, and full of opportunities for growth. From hospital pharmacies to community care, technicians are essential in ensuring patients get the right medicines and advice.

I want to encourage more people to explore this career path. Pharmacy Technicians are the quiet achievers of healthcare, working behind the scenes to make sure everything runs smoothly. It’s a role that truly makes a difference, and it’s one I’m proud to represent.