The latest episode of Heavyweight with Dave Letele premieres this Thursday and explores obesity in New Zealand.
In “Tipping the Scales”, Dave is joined by some of New Zealand’s most respected experts in public health, obesity research, and community healthcare. Contributors include Dr. Robyn Toomath, Dr. Mataroria Lyndon, Dr. Lesley Grey, and Dr. Collin Tukuotonga, providing critical insights into the complexities of obesity. Former Deputy Prime Minister Paula Bennett also joins the discussion, sharing her own personal experience.
Dave sets the stage with a stark reality: "In New Zealand, one in three adults are classified as obese, with Pacifica and Māori communities at the highest end of the scale." Tipping the Scales delves into societal, environmental, and economic factors driving this crisis and explores potential solutions.
Dr. Tukuotonga expresses frustration that we "don’t seem to be making a dent—rates continue to rise, even among children” with prevalence in lower-income communities. Serenity Sola, a guest who shares her 40kg + weight loss journey confirms this - commenting on “the big four” she sees grouped together in her community - bakery, takeaway, liquor store, dairy.
Dr. Lyndon highlights diet as a key driver: "Food has become more processed, with more sugar and fat. It's hard to outrun a bad diet." He warns of the serious health risks, noting that "you're three times more likely to have a heart attack if you're obese."
Research from Auckland University reveals food accessibility as a major issue, showing that "people in lower socioeconomic areas have three times the number of takeaway and fast food outlets." Former Deputy PM Paula Bennett reflects on her personal weight struggles, amplified through pregnancy in her late teens and eventually addressed through surgery.
While gastric bypass surgery is noted as effective, Dr. Tukuotonga warns it's "unaffordable for most and not where we should be going. Prevention, health promotion, and community-driven initiatives are key." Dr. Grey reinforces that "obesity isn’t simple—it’s environmental, genetic, and circumstantial. Real change requires supporting young people to build healthier futures."
Dr. Toomath emphasizes poverty’s role in obesity, noting that "the ratio is much higher in poorer areas." She calls for systemic change, advocating for "public health measures like redesigning environments, removing junk food outlets, and improving transport."
As the conversation unfolds, Tipping the Scales makes it clear: that addressing obesity requires a collective effort.
The episode challenges viewers to rethink assumptions and consider how to create healthier environments for future generations - drawing from experts, personal stories and Dave’s own lived experience, having lost 100kg and working on the frontline of obesity in the community.
Heavyweight with Dave Letele - Tipping the Scales premieres this Thursday February 13 at 8pm on TVNZ 2 and TVNZ +, previous episodes (Down and Out, Patched) are still available to view on TVNZ+.
All three episodes have been made with the support of NZ On Air, Irirangi Te Motu.
