The global rise in obesity has become one of the most pressing public health challenges of our time. While lifestyle changes remain fundamental, the effectiveness of surgical intervention in the management of obesity is now widely recognised. Bariatric procedures not only support long-term weight loss but also offer significant improvements in obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnoea.

In New Zealand, Mr Daniel Mafi, a New Zealand-trained General, Laparoscopic and Endoscopic Surgeon based in Tauranga, is at the forefront of contemporary weight loss surgery and gastrointestinal care.

A Surgeon with International Expertise

With over 15 years of surgical experience, Daniel Mafi has worked across all of New Zealand’s major centres, covering a broad spectrum of surgical disciplines. His training includes four years in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, providing him with a meticulous eye for precision and technique that benefits his work in bariatric and hernia procedures.

Further honing his expertise, Daniel undertook two years of subspecialty training at the Glasgow Royal Infirmary in Scotland, where he held an International Medical Training Fellowship in Oesophago-Gastric Surgery. During his time at one of Scotland’s busiest cancer centres, he developed advanced skills in upper gastrointestinal disorders, complex hernia repairs, abdominal wall reconstruction, and bariatric (weight loss) surgery.

Specialist in Weight Loss Surgery

Daniel has a particular interest in the surgical management of obesity, offering both gastric sleeve and gastric bypass surgery. These procedures are powerful tools in the treatment of severe obesity, helping patients not only achieve weight loss, but also manage associated comorbidities and significantly improve quality of life.

He performs these surgeries with a minimally invasive (laparoscopic) approach, which leads to shorter recovery times, less post-operative pain, and reduced scarring.

Daniel’s practice is built on a patient-centred model, focusing on individualised assessment, honest communication, and long-term support. He believes that surgery is not just about physical transformation but also empowering patients to regain confidence and take control of their health.

Broader Surgical Scope

In addition to bariatric surgery, Daniel Mafi specialises in:

• Hiatus hernia repair and anti-reflux procedures

• Laparoscopic hernia repair – including inguinal, umbilical and complex abdominal wall reconstructions

• Upper gastrointestinal diagnostics and interventions

Whether addressing chronic acid reflux, abdominal hernias, or weight-related surgical issues, Daniel applies the same level of commitment to safety, precision, and optimal outcomes.

Credentials and Professional Involvement

Daniel is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) and holds memberships with several esteemed professional bodies, including:

• The New Zealand Association of General Surgeons

• The ANZ Metabolic and Obesity Surgery Society (ANZMOSS)

• The ANZ Gastric and Oesophageal Surgery Association (ANZGOSA)

• The British Hernia Society

• The European Hernia Society

He currently holds Consultant positions at Tauranga Public Hospital (Bay of Plenty DHB) and Grace Hospital (Norfolk Southern Cross), where he continues to provide high-quality surgical care in both the public and private sectors.

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