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In this episode, Sharon Curtain, Dietitian, health coach,director of Accredited Health Coaching Australia, and Board member of HCANZA is joined by David Codyre, a psychiatrist who works with Tamaki Health, a network of clinics providing team-based primary care services to populations in high-needs areas of Auckland, NZ
Dr David Codyre shares how health coaching is transforming primary care in New Zealand. Drawing on over 20 years of experience in mental health and system design, David explains how traditional models—short GP consultations and referral-based services—have struggled to meet the needs of patients, particularly those with complex or chronic conditions.
We explore the shift to an integrated, team-based approach, where health coaches, mental health practitioners, and community support workers are embedded directly within general practice. This model allows patients to receive support in the moment—when they are most ready—leading to significantly higher engagement and better health outcomes.
David highlights the unique role of health coaches in bridging the gap between knowing and doing. By focusing on what matters to the patient, addressing barriers, and supporting small, achievable behaviour changes, health coaches are helping people better manage long-term conditions and improve their overall wellbeing.
The conversation also explores the impact on clinicians. With health coaches as part of the team, GPs and nurses report reduced pressure, increased job satisfaction, and a renewed sense of effectiveness in their work.
Finally, we discuss what Australia can learn from New Zealand’s experience—including the importance of integration, ongoing support, and rethinking how primary care teams work together.
Health Coaches Australia New Zealand Association has developed the competencies and scope of practice for health coaches in Australia and New Zealand.
Tāmaki Health has been reappointed as a national provider of Health Coach training for the Integrated Primary Mental Health and Addiction (IPMHA) programme, recognising five years of successful delivery across Aotearoa New Zealand. Their program has met the high standards of the HCANZA accreditation program, meaning their coaches are eligible for professional membership with HCANZA.
Guest Bio:
David is a psychiatrist with 35 years experience working in the community and primary mental health sector in New Zealand, in a range of clinical and leadership roles. Since 2012 David has been Clinical Director, Wellness Support, with Tamaki Health, a network of clinics providing team-based primary care services to populations in high-needs areas of Auckland, NZ. He is currently seconded half time as Clinical Director of Tū Whakaruruhau (the Auckland Wellbeing Collaborative), supporting implementation of the “Access and Choice” IPMHA programme, integrating HIPs, Health Coaches, and NGO support, into all GP clinics in Auckland. David is also Lead Psychiatrist to Whakarongorau, the National Telehealth Service – the home of 1737 “Need to Talk”, the Depression Helpline, Drug/Alcohol Helpline, and Gambling Helpline.
