Tā te kiritaki whai wāhi
Consumer opportunities
Read more about the current open opportunities for consumers to get involved.
At Te Tāhū Hauora, we support consumers being actively involved in decision-making about their health, at all levels.
Health services, including hospitals, government agencies and other services, require consumer representatives to co-design the planning, design, delivery and evaluation of health services.
Below are the current open opportunities for consumers to get involved.
Please note Te Tāhū Hauora publishes these opportunities on behalf of a range of different agencies and groups in the health sector. Please contact each provider directly using the information provided in the listing.
Do you have an opportunity you think consumer health forum Aotearoa members should know about?
If so, please submit an expression of interest for consumer and whānau representatives here.
Current opportunities
Do you want to use your own health experience to work with Te Tāhū Hauora Health Quality & Safety Commission (Te Tāhū Hauora)? We are seeking expressions of interest to fill one vacancy on Ngā Reo Māhuri | Young Voices Group (Nga Reo Māhuri).
Ngā Reo Māhuri has up to 8 members and provides advice and direction to the Te Pūkāea Matatika | Māori Health and Consumer (Te Pūkāea Matatika) programme and other teams within Te Tāhū Hauora.
Introduction
Te Tāhū Hauora is a crown entity, established under the New Zealand Public Health and Disability Act 2000. It now functions under the Pae Ora (Healthy Futures) Act 2022 to lead, coordinate and support the health sector to monitor and improve the quality and safety of services.
Ngā Reo Māhuri was established in 2023 to support the implementation of the Te Pūkāea Matatika programme which promotes strategic partnerships and effective consumer engagement across the health sector, leading to improved experiences for consumers and whānau who use these services. In addition to established consumer groups, Ngā Reo Māhuri provides for young people to easily communicate with Te Tāhū Hauora and vice versa.
The Te Pūkāea Matatika programme at Te Tāhū Hauora supports consumers to be engaged and involved in partnership with the health and disability sector at all levels, including service delivery, design, planning, policy development and governance.
The Code of expectations for health entities’ engagement with consumers and whānau (the Code) sets the expectations for consumer engagement and Te Tāhū Hauora strives to be an exemplar for the sector in its implementation.
The Terms of Reference (TOR) are below.
What is expected in the role?
Members of Ngā Reo Māhuri have well-established networks and the ability to consult widely. Meetings are held approximately quarterly via Teams with some in person meetings throughout the year in Wellington. The role of Ngā Reo Māhuri is to:
· provide advice from a youth consumer perspective and be able to represent your own views from lived experience and represent the relevant views of your consumer communities,
· provide advice and review materials from work programmes at Te Tāhū Hauora, Manatū Hauora | Ministry of Health, and other agencies when required,
· promote the work of Te Tāhū Hauora and the Te Pūkāea Matatika programme with local consumer groups and health providers,
· provide strategic guidance and support to enhance collaboration between consumer groups, health providers and government agencies.
How to submit an expression of interest
Review the Terms of Reference (ToR).
Complete the Expression of Interest application form and email it to pic@hqsc.govt.nz by 26 May 2025. All candidates will be notified of the outcome of their expression of interest. Short-listed candidates will be offered a zoom or telephone interview.
Applications for this Expression of Interest may be kept on file for future opportunities that may arise.
Please see below for timelines on the process for notifications, interviews, advice on appointment dates and meetings at the end of the application.
Improving health workforce regulation
Consumers of health services are invited to have their say in helping to improve health workforce regulation to make sure all New Zealanders have access to timely, quality healthcare.
The workforce is our health system’s greatest asset and plays a vital role in improving the health outcomes of New Zealanders. However, New Zealand faces challenges with shortages across a range of professions, and growing demand from an ageing population with more complex needs.
To meet our future needs, we need to look at ways of doing things differently. Better regulation that is responsive, puts patients first, and maximises the potential of our health workforce can help us to address these challenges.
As part of the review, a discussion document has been developed which outlines how workforce regulation could be improved and what this would mean for patients.
You can read the discussion document and one-page summary on the Ministry of Health website https://www.health.govt.nz/publications/putting-patients-first-modernising-health-workforce-regulation
Have your say
The Government wants to hear your views on:
Patient-centred regulation: Faster wait times, better outcomes, and a system that truly puts patients first.
Streamlined regulation: Using resources and administering the rules in the most cost-effective way possible, ensuring value for money for taxpayers and better outcomes for patients.
Right-sized regulation: The level of regulation should depend on the level of risk to public safety involved.
Future-proofed regulation: Modernised and adaptive regulation that ensures patients receive the care they need while supporting the workforce to respond to the needs of all New Zealanders.
Making your voluntary submission
Please make your submission using the online feedback form https://consult.health.govt.nz/regulatory-policy/putting-patients-first/
Public consultation closes: 11.59pm Wednesday 30 April 2025.
Are you passionate about improving health services for Pacific communities? Health NZ's Northern Regional
Consumer Council (RCC) is looking for a Pacific member to bring their lived experience and community voice
to the table.
The Northern RCC works to ensure health services are designed and delivered in a way that meets the
diverse needs of our communities. As a member, you will provide valuable insights, advocate for Pacific
health equity, and contribute to improving the consumer experience.
To be eligible, applicants must be based in the Northern Region (Northland, Auckland, Waitemata, Counties
Manukau) and have experience engaging with the health system as a consumer or whanau member.
The Northern RCC had its inaugural meeting in December 2024 and meets online on the second Monday of
every month, 2:30 - 4:30pm. Members receive reimbursement in line with the Health NZ Consumer
Reimbursement Policy ($60 per hour, plus expenses, for meeting time); preparation time is calculated as
half-meeting time, $500 annual learning and development budget available.
Applications close: 11:55pm 2 May 2025
To apply, email: northern.rcc@tewhatuora.govt.nz
Join us and help shape a healthcare system that works for Pacific communities!
Northern Regional Consumer Council expression of interest (docx, 101KB)
Northern Regional Consumer Council terms of reference (docx, 81KB)
Te Whatu Ora | Health New Zealand (Health NZ) is pleased to announce the establishment of two new clinical governance committees in the Northern Region: The Northern Integrated Clinical Governance Committee (NICGC) and the Northern Primary & Community Clinical Governance Committee (NPCCG). Both committees are deeply committed to upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi and achieving health equity for all populations, including Māori, Pacific, disabled, rural, and LGBTQIA+ communities. We welcome applications from all professions and communities with the greatest need, and we encourage diversity and inclusion, committed to equal opportunity in all our policies and procedures.
These Committees aim to provide oversight, assurance, and leadership for clinical quality and safety across the region. They will focus on developing and implementing the Te Tāhū Hauora | Health Quality & Safety Commission (Te Tāhū Hauora) clinical governance framework as well as embedding Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles into governance, ensuring equity, improving patient safety, and fostering clinical excellence across the primary and community health system in the region. The Committees will operate to support system-wide integration, elevating issues from local levels and enabling collaborative problem-solving.
The aim of these groups is to foster an environment of a high-quality continuously improving healthcare system to achieve the best possible health outcomes and experiences for the people in the Northern Region.
Northern Integrated Clinical Governance Committee (NICGC) – one consumer representative.
The Northern Integrated Clinical Governance Committee (NICGC, the Committee) is the key system wide clinical governance group for the Northern Region at Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora (Health NZ). It has a key function to provide holistic clinical governance expertise and to take a regional whole of system view including hospitals and community healthcare delivery. It works in partnership with the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and Regional Leadership Group (RLG), is accountable to the National Clinical Governance Group and works closely alongside Te Whiri Kaha (Hauora Māori Services’ Clinical Senate), Fatu Fono Pacific Senate, and local clinical governance groups at the district and community level. It is committed to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and it is committed to working with and achieving equity for Māori, Pacific, disabled, rural, LGBTQIA+ and other populations.
Northern Primary & Community Clinical Governance Committee (NPCCG) – one consumer representative.
The Northern Primary & Community Clinical Governance Committee (NPCCG, the Committee) is the clinical governance body, which oversees, coordinates and supports cohesive, coordinated and harmonised (where possible) clinical governance and quality management activities across the primary and community care sector in the Northern Region. This group is the partner of regional Commissioning and the Regional Leadership team. It is accountable to the Regional Commissioner, Northern, and works closely with the Regional Integrated Clinical Governance Group and the Regional Leadership Group (Commissioning).
Who are we seeking?
We are specifically seeking for two (2) members of the community to join the Committees (one on each) to complement its current diversity and to provide the point of view of the population we serve. We recognise the importance of ensuring consumer perspectives and lived experiences are represented in healthcare decision-making.
The ideal candidate should have:
- Significant and credible consumer experience related with the healthcare.
- Governance experience in either clinical or another form of governance.
- Ability to articulate an understanding of the Pae Ora (Health Futures) Act 2022 and the wider goals and objectives of Health NZ.
- Show a commitment to undertaking the work required of the Northern Clinical Governance Committees. This includes active participation in meetings and acting as a champion of high-quality clinical governance for the region.
Please note that there will be a member of the Northern Region Consumer Council appointed to each Committee as well.
The Northern Regional Consumer Council (RCC) provides consumer and whānau perspectives to ensure that Health NZ services are designed and delivered in a way that meets the diverse needs of our communities. It aims to strengthen the voice of consumers and whānau within the health system, ensuring lived experiences shape decisions and improvements in healthcare services.
Who else is involved?
The NICGC comprises healthcare professionals with strong clinical or relevant professional experience aligned with the Committee's objectives. We collaborate closely with Health NZ – Northern Region to continuously monitor our clinical framework and identify opportunities to improve service delivery to our population.
What is the expected time commitment?
The NICGC's inaugural meeting is scheduled for March 2025, with subsequent meetings held monthly, excluding January.
- The role is a two-year term, with the possibility of extension.
- Monthly meetings are two hours in duration, with the specific date and time to be determined upon committee formation.
- Members are expected to prepare for meetings by reviewing materials, providing input, and actively participating in discussions.
- The estimated monthly workload is four hours.
How will members be compensated for their time?
- Members receive reimbursement in line with the Health NZ Consumer Reimbursement Policy:
- $60 per hour for meeting attendance and half-meeting time for preparation.
Deadline for applications: 5/05/2025
To apply: complete the expression of interest form and email to ni.clinicalgov@tewhatuora.govt.nz
Join us and help shape a healthcare system that works for our community!
Download the expression of interest form (DOCX 208KB).
Read the terms of reference for Northern Region Clinical Governance Committees (PDF, KB).
Consumers and whānau are invited to complete a voluntary survey to inform the development of a new Assistant/Associate Psychologist role.
Te Whatu Ora | Health New Zealand is proposing the development of a new role for an Assistant or Associate Psychologist (AP) to increase the mental health workforce. The title is yet to be confirmed and will be referred to here as AP. A new accredited qualification (yet to be developed), would provide post-graduate training for psychology graduates, leading to NZPB registration. APs would have set competencies (including cultural), work under supervision, and work only in a team setting. It is envisaged that a career pathway may be developed for APs to go on to further training as psychologists.
Gathering feedback from key stakeholders is a vital part of developing a new scope of practice. Te Whatu Ora started by forming an AP Advisory Group (APAG). New Zealand Psychological Society (NZPS) and New Zealand College Of Clinical Psychologists (NZCCP) have also asked their members for initial responses to the concept. With the recent release of the “Guidance for development of the AP Workforce and Role Description” by Te Whatu Ora, the Board is now asking for your feedback. Please complete the attached survey to have input into this important development in our profession. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/5L5Y6JM
Feedback closes 30 April 2025 at 12.00pm. Ngā mihi.
The survey is designed to gather valuable insights from people about their experiences with telehealth services. This feedback plays a critical role in shaping telehealth resource delivery to ensure it aligns with patient needs and preferences. By prioritising their voice, we aim to develop resources for health professionals that support continuity of care and maintain easy access to healthcare, whether through phone or video consultations.
The feedback collected will help refine and improve telehealth initiatives and solutions in primary care, addressing any challenges or gaps identified by patients, while ensuring their needs are met efficiently and compassionately.
Through this survey, the Collaborative Aotearoa team aims to create a telehealth resource collaborative that truly reflects the patient experience, empowering individuals to feel heard and supported in their healthcare journey. Please complete the online survey here.
EOI: Ngā Reo Māhuri | Young Voices Group
Do you want to use your own health experience to work with Te Tāhū Hauora Health Quality & Safety Commission (Te Tāhū Hauora)? We are seeking expressions of interest to fill one vacancy on Ngā Reo Māhuri | Young Voices Group (Nga Reo Māhuri).
Ngā Reo Māhuri has up to 8 members and provides advice and direction to the Te Pūkāea Matatika | Māori Health and Consumer (Te Pūkāea Matatika) programme and other teams within Te Tāhū Hauora.
Introduction
Te Tāhū Hauora is a crown entity, established under the New Zealand Public Health and Disability Act 2000. It now functions under the Pae Ora (Healthy Futures) Act 2022 to lead, coordinate and support the health sector to monitor and improve the quality and safety of services.
Ngā Reo Māhuri was established in 2023 to support the implementation of the Te Pūkāea Matatika programme which promotes strategic partnerships and effective consumer engagement across the health sector, leading to improved experiences for consumers and whānau who use these services. In addition to established consumer groups, Ngā Reo Māhuri provides for young people to easily communicate with Te Tāhū Hauora and vice versa.
The Te Pūkāea Matatika programme at Te Tāhū Hauora supports consumers to be engaged and involved in partnership with the health and disability sector at all levels, including service delivery, design, planning, policy development and governance.
The Code of expectations for health entities’ engagement with consumers and whānau (the Code) sets the expectations for consumer engagement and Te Tāhū Hauora strives to be an exemplar for the sector in its implementation.
The Terms of Reference (TOR) are below.
What is expected in the role?
Members of Ngā Reo Māhuri have well-established networks and the ability to consult widely. Meetings are held approximately quarterly via Teams with some in person meetings throughout the year in Wellington. The role of Ngā Reo Māhuri is to:
· provide advice from a youth consumer perspective and be able to represent your own views from lived experience and represent the relevant views of your consumer communities,
· provide advice and review materials from work programmes at Te Tāhū Hauora, Manatū Hauora | Ministry of Health, and other agencies when required,
· promote the work of Te Tāhū Hauora and the Te Pūkāea Matatika programme with local consumer groups and health providers,
· provide strategic guidance and support to enhance collaboration between consumer groups, health providers and government agencies.
How to submit an expression of interest
Review the Terms of Reference (ToR).
Complete the Expression of Interest application form and email it to pic@hqsc.govt.nz by 26 May 2025. All candidates will be notified of the outcome of their expression of interest. Short-listed candidates will be offered a zoom or telephone interview.
Applications for this Expression of Interest may be kept on file for future opportunities that may arise.
Please see below for timelines on the process for notifications, interviews, advice on appointment dates and meetings at the end of the application.
EOI: Putting the Patient First: Modernising Health Workforce Regulation – public consultation
Improving health workforce regulation
Consumers of health services are invited to have their say in helping to improve health workforce regulation to make sure all New Zealanders have access to timely, quality healthcare.
The workforce is our health system’s greatest asset and plays a vital role in improving the health outcomes of New Zealanders. However, New Zealand faces challenges with shortages across a range of professions, and growing demand from an ageing population with more complex needs.
To meet our future needs, we need to look at ways of doing things differently. Better regulation that is responsive, puts patients first, and maximises the potential of our health workforce can help us to address these challenges.
As part of the review, a discussion document has been developed which outlines how workforce regulation could be improved and what this would mean for patients.
You can read the discussion document and one-page summary on the Ministry of Health website https://www.health.govt.nz/publications/putting-patients-first-modernising-health-workforce-regulation
Have your say
The Government wants to hear your views on:
Patient-centred regulation: Faster wait times, better outcomes, and a system that truly puts patients first.
Streamlined regulation: Using resources and administering the rules in the most cost-effective way possible, ensuring value for money for taxpayers and better outcomes for patients.
Right-sized regulation: The level of regulation should depend on the level of risk to public safety involved.
Future-proofed regulation: Modernised and adaptive regulation that ensures patients receive the care they need while supporting the workforce to respond to the needs of all New Zealanders.
Making your voluntary submission
Please make your submission using the online feedback form https://consult.health.govt.nz/regulatory-policy/putting-patients-first/
Public consultation closes: 11.59pm Wednesday 30 April 2025.
EOI: Pacific Member for the Northern Regional Consumer Council - Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora (Health NZ)
Are you passionate about improving health services for Pacific communities? Health NZ's Northern Regional
Consumer Council (RCC) is looking for a Pacific member to bring their lived experience and community voice
to the table.
The Northern RCC works to ensure health services are designed and delivered in a way that meets the
diverse needs of our communities. As a member, you will provide valuable insights, advocate for Pacific
health equity, and contribute to improving the consumer experience.
To be eligible, applicants must be based in the Northern Region (Northland, Auckland, Waitemata, Counties
Manukau) and have experience engaging with the health system as a consumer or whanau member.
The Northern RCC had its inaugural meeting in December 2024 and meets online on the second Monday of
every month, 2:30 - 4:30pm. Members receive reimbursement in line with the Health NZ Consumer
Reimbursement Policy ($60 per hour, plus expenses, for meeting time); preparation time is calculated as
half-meeting time, $500 annual learning and development budget available.
Applications close: 11:55pm 2 May 2025
To apply, email: northern.rcc@tewhatuora.govt.nz
Join us and help shape a healthcare system that works for Pacific communities!
Northern Regional Consumer Council expression of interest (docx, 101KB)
Northern Regional Consumer Council terms of reference (docx, 81KB)
EOI: Consumer Representatives for Northern Clinical Governance Committees - Te Whatu Ora | Health New Zealand (Health NZ)
Te Whatu Ora | Health New Zealand (Health NZ) is pleased to announce the establishment of two new clinical governance committees in the Northern Region: The Northern Integrated Clinical Governance Committee (NICGC) and the Northern Primary & Community Clinical Governance Committee (NPCCG). Both committees are deeply committed to upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi and achieving health equity for all populations, including Māori, Pacific, disabled, rural, and LGBTQIA+ communities. We welcome applications from all professions and communities with the greatest need, and we encourage diversity and inclusion, committed to equal opportunity in all our policies and procedures.
These Committees aim to provide oversight, assurance, and leadership for clinical quality and safety across the region. They will focus on developing and implementing the Te Tāhū Hauora | Health Quality & Safety Commission (Te Tāhū Hauora) clinical governance framework as well as embedding Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles into governance, ensuring equity, improving patient safety, and fostering clinical excellence across the primary and community health system in the region. The Committees will operate to support system-wide integration, elevating issues from local levels and enabling collaborative problem-solving.
The aim of these groups is to foster an environment of a high-quality continuously improving healthcare system to achieve the best possible health outcomes and experiences for the people in the Northern Region.
Northern Integrated Clinical Governance Committee (NICGC) – one consumer representative.
The Northern Integrated Clinical Governance Committee (NICGC, the Committee) is the key system wide clinical governance group for the Northern Region at Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora (Health NZ). It has a key function to provide holistic clinical governance expertise and to take a regional whole of system view including hospitals and community healthcare delivery. It works in partnership with the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and Regional Leadership Group (RLG), is accountable to the National Clinical Governance Group and works closely alongside Te Whiri Kaha (Hauora Māori Services’ Clinical Senate), Fatu Fono Pacific Senate, and local clinical governance groups at the district and community level. It is committed to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and it is committed to working with and achieving equity for Māori, Pacific, disabled, rural, LGBTQIA+ and other populations.
Northern Primary & Community Clinical Governance Committee (NPCCG) – one consumer representative.
The Northern Primary & Community Clinical Governance Committee (NPCCG, the Committee) is the clinical governance body, which oversees, coordinates and supports cohesive, coordinated and harmonised (where possible) clinical governance and quality management activities across the primary and community care sector in the Northern Region. This group is the partner of regional Commissioning and the Regional Leadership team. It is accountable to the Regional Commissioner, Northern, and works closely with the Regional Integrated Clinical Governance Group and the Regional Leadership Group (Commissioning).
Who are we seeking?
We are specifically seeking for two (2) members of the community to join the Committees (one on each) to complement its current diversity and to provide the point of view of the population we serve. We recognise the importance of ensuring consumer perspectives and lived experiences are represented in healthcare decision-making.
The ideal candidate should have:
- Significant and credible consumer experience related with the healthcare.
- Governance experience in either clinical or another form of governance.
- Ability to articulate an understanding of the Pae Ora (Health Futures) Act 2022 and the wider goals and objectives of Health NZ.
- Show a commitment to undertaking the work required of the Northern Clinical Governance Committees. This includes active participation in meetings and acting as a champion of high-quality clinical governance for the region.
Please note that there will be a member of the Northern Region Consumer Council appointed to each Committee as well.
The Northern Regional Consumer Council (RCC) provides consumer and whānau perspectives to ensure that Health NZ services are designed and delivered in a way that meets the diverse needs of our communities. It aims to strengthen the voice of consumers and whānau within the health system, ensuring lived experiences shape decisions and improvements in healthcare services.
Who else is involved?
The NICGC comprises healthcare professionals with strong clinical or relevant professional experience aligned with the Committee's objectives. We collaborate closely with Health NZ – Northern Region to continuously monitor our clinical framework and identify opportunities to improve service delivery to our population.
What is the expected time commitment?
The NICGC's inaugural meeting is scheduled for March 2025, with subsequent meetings held monthly, excluding January.
- The role is a two-year term, with the possibility of extension.
- Monthly meetings are two hours in duration, with the specific date and time to be determined upon committee formation.
- Members are expected to prepare for meetings by reviewing materials, providing input, and actively participating in discussions.
- The estimated monthly workload is four hours.
How will members be compensated for their time?
- Members receive reimbursement in line with the Health NZ Consumer Reimbursement Policy:
- $60 per hour for meeting attendance and half-meeting time for preparation.
Deadline for applications: 5/05/2025
To apply: complete the expression of interest form and email to ni.clinicalgov@tewhatuora.govt.nz
Join us and help shape a healthcare system that works for our community!
Download the expression of interest form (DOCX 208KB).
Read the terms of reference for Northern Region Clinical Governance Committees (PDF, KB).
EOI: Development of Assistant/Associate Psychologist role – Te Poari Kaimātai Hinengaro o Aotearoa | New Zealand Psychologists Board survey
Consumers and whānau are invited to complete a voluntary survey to inform the development of a new Assistant/Associate Psychologist role.
Te Whatu Ora | Health New Zealand is proposing the development of a new role for an Assistant or Associate Psychologist (AP) to increase the mental health workforce. The title is yet to be confirmed and will be referred to here as AP. A new accredited qualification (yet to be developed), would provide post-graduate training for psychology graduates, leading to NZPB registration. APs would have set competencies (including cultural), work under supervision, and work only in a team setting. It is envisaged that a career pathway may be developed for APs to go on to further training as psychologists.
Gathering feedback from key stakeholders is a vital part of developing a new scope of practice. Te Whatu Ora started by forming an AP Advisory Group (APAG). New Zealand Psychological Society (NZPS) and New Zealand College Of Clinical Psychologists (NZCCP) have also asked their members for initial responses to the concept. With the recent release of the “Guidance for development of the AP Workforce and Role Description” by Te Whatu Ora, the Board is now asking for your feedback. Please complete the attached survey to have input into this important development in our profession. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/5L5Y6JM
Feedback closes 30 April 2025 at 12.00pm. Ngā mihi.
EOI: Collaborative Aotearoa Telehealth Patient Voice Survey
The survey is designed to gather valuable insights from people about their experiences with telehealth services. This feedback plays a critical role in shaping telehealth resource delivery to ensure it aligns with patient needs and preferences. By prioritising their voice, we aim to develop resources for health professionals that support continuity of care and maintain easy access to healthcare, whether through phone or video consultations.
The feedback collected will help refine and improve telehealth initiatives and solutions in primary care, addressing any challenges or gaps identified by patients, while ensuring their needs are met efficiently and compassionately.
Through this survey, the Collaborative Aotearoa team aims to create a telehealth resource collaborative that truly reflects the patient experience, empowering individuals to feel heard and supported in their healthcare journey. Please complete the online survey here.
Published: 16 Sep 2022
Modified: 18 Jul 2024
