Dr Alistair Papali'i-Curtin

Alistair is a New Zealand-trained ophthalmologist with advanced fellowship training in cornea, oculoplastics, and glaucoma. He holds postgraduate expertise in refractive cataract and laser surgery from the University of Sydney, graduating with High Distinction. As National Co-Lead for the Eye Health National Clinical Network at Te Whatu Ora | Health New Zealand, Alistair focuses on delivering patient-centred, high-quality care that prioritises clinical excellence and patient well-being.

AREAS OF SPECIALISATION
Alistair specialises in cataract, refractive, glaucoma, oculoplastics, corneal disease, and general ophthalmology, ensuring each patient receives tailored, high-quality care.

DESCRIPTION OF SPECIALISATION
Alistairs expertise is underpinned by advanced training and distinctions, including being the Top Examination Candidate in Cornea and Corneal Refractive Surgery at the European School for Advanced Studies in Ophthalmology (ESASO). His skills were further enhanced through Anterior Segment and Refractive Surgery observerships at the University G. dAnnunzio in Italy and the ELZA Institute in Zurich, Switzerland.

Alistair has published in peer-reviewed journals and served as a Peer Reviewer for the Journal of Refractive Surgery. He co-authored the defining Wellington Keratoconus Study, which utilised advanced corneal tomography imaging in high schools to reveal significantly higher keratoconus rates among New Zealand adolescents, especially Māori and Pasifika. This research underscores Alistairs commitment to advancing eye health through early diagnosis, driving better outcomes for patients by combining innovative techniques with evidence-based care.

As one of two Pasifika FRANZCO ophthalmologists in New Zealand and a holder of the Matai title Tofilau from Iva, Samoa, Alistair is dedicated to culturally safe, respectful care. Referring clinicians can trust that their patients will receive skilled, empathetic care with a focus on clear communication and excellent outcomes.

Dr Alistair Papālii-Curtin

MBChB, CertHSc, PGDipOphthBS (Dist), GradDipRefCatSurg, FRANZCO

MEMBERSHIPS

• National Co-Lead, Eye Health National Clinical Network, Te Whatu Ora | Health New Zealand
• Fellow, Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (FRANZCO)
• Board Member, Ophthalmology New Zealand (ONZ)
• Member, NZ Māori and Pasifika Eye Health Committee (MPEHC)
• Member, Program Selection and Grants Sub-Committee for the Australian & New Zealand Eye Foundation (ANZEF)
• Member, NZ Institute of Directors (MInstD)

QUALIFICATIONS

• Graduate Diploma of Cataract & Refractive Surgery, High Distinction (University of Sydney)
• Fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (FRANZCO)
• Postgraduate Diploma in Ophthalmic Basic Sciences, Distinction (University of Otago)
• Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (University of Auckland)
• Certificate of Health Sciences, Highest Achiever Award (University of Auckland)

SPECIALIST EXPERIENCE
As National Co-Lead for Eye Health, Alistair helps shape strategies to improve eye care quality and outcomes across New Zealand. With over 12 years of governance and leadership experience, he combines expertise with a collaborative, respectful approach, making him a trusted partner for both clinicians and patients.