Welcome to Ō Mātou Reo: Our Voices 2025
- The day's programme
- Taking photos and filming
- Where to find the different rooms and facilities
- How to recognise the Commission's kaimahi (staff) if you have any questions
- Biographies for each of our speakers
- Join the Consumer health forum Aotearoa
- Take a look at the Commission's free resources to order
- The Code of expectations and SURE framework
Programme
Download the programme (PDF 158KB)
- Speaker: Tanya Filia
- Speakers: Moira Lomas, Hera Murray.
- Speakers: Zechariah Reuelu, Cherie Seamark
- Speaker: Justin Butcher
- Speakers: Kaaren Mathias, Martin Burke
3.00 Afternoon tea
- Speakers:
-
- Sarah Jackson, National Chief, Quality & Patient safety, Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora
- Norma Lane, Clinical Governance Development manager, New Zealand Blood Service
- Dr Nicola Ngawati, Director Equity and Engagement, Pharmac
- Ronelle Baker, Whaikaha Ministry of Disabled people
- Rose Wall, Deputy Commissioner Disability, Health and Disability Commissioner
- Carlton Irving, Director of Māori Health and Consumer, Health Quality & Safety Commission Te Tāhū Hauora
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Information about taking photos, filming and sharing on social media
- You can take photos during Ō Mātou Reo: Our Voices 2025.
- You cannot film speakers, panels or presentations.
The decision to not allow filming reflects the preference of our speakers and is aimed at protecting their material.
If you’re sharing photos and reflections on social media, feel free to tag the Health Quality & Safety Commission Te Tāhū Hauora. Find us below:
- The Commission’s LinkedIn page
- Our Facebook page
- Our Instagram page, and handle: @hqscnz
Finding your way around Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre
Ō Mātou Reo: Our Voices 2025 will be held on level 2, Tāwhirimātea, of Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre. The address is 50 Cable Street, Te Aro, Wellington.
You can find more information about visiting Tākina on their webpage: Getting here - Tākina.
On arrival at Tākina, please use the elevators or escalators to access Level 2.
The registration desk will be at the top of the escalator on level 2.
The rooms for keynotes and workstreams will be opposite the registration desk, look for the digital signs by the doors.
There are bathrooms at either end of level 2, the larger ones are next to the red couches.
Food will be served as a buffet in the foyer of level 2.
Speaker biographies
In order of appearance:
Arrun Soma
Arrun Soma returns once again as our MC, to guide our day by centring it on connection, conversation and collaboration.
Arrun is a former 1 News, Seven Sharp and BBC journalist. His background as a journalist along with his communications skills and whānau lived experience makes him the perfect person to guide us through the day.
Rae Lamb, Chair of the Board, Heath Quality & Safety Commission Te Tāhū Hauora
Rae Lamb has an extensive background in journalism, focusing on politics and health. She has also worked as Deputy Health and Disability Commissioner in New Zealand, and as the Aged Care Commissioner for Australia. In early 2019, Rae returned to New Zealand and became the chief executive officer of Te Pou and Blueprint for Learning, a non-governmental organisation (NGO) focused on developing the mental health, addiction and disability workforce for six years. More recently Rae has retired from full time work to concentrate on governance, projects and family.
Rae was a 2001–02 New Zealand Harkness Fellow and was a trustee on the international governing board for Cochrane. She has also served on the ACC ethics committee.
Sir Ashley Bloomfield
“Sir Ashley Bloomfield has 25 years’ experience in public health, policy and health leadership, including at the World Health Organization (WHO) in Geneva. Ashley was New Zealand’s Director-General of Health from June 2018 to July 2022 and led the country’s health response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
He was appointed a Knights Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (KNZM) in the 2023 New Year Honours for services to public health. Between 2022 and June 2024, Dr Bloomfield was Co-Chair of the Working Group for Amendments to the International Health Regulations (2005) at the WHO.
Ashley is now a Professor at the University of Auckland's School of Population Health and Interim Chief Executive at Environmental Science and Research (ESR).”
Biography provided by Celebrity Speakers
He Oranga Pumau
Ki te taha o tōku pāpā
No Te Āti Awa me Kai Tahu ahau
Ki te taha o tōku māmā
No Ngāpuhi ahau
No Ngāti Hamoa tōku hoa rangatira ā Ioane Filia
I am a 52-year-old woman
Married to Ioane John Filia, we have 4 children, 3 independent aged 26, 30, 31 and 1 dependent 15-year-old
Sharing my experiences since diagnosed with a grade 4 Glioblastoma brain tumour. He Oranga Pumau.
Tanya Filia
Ki te taha o tōku pāpā
No Te Āti Awa me Kai Tahu ahau
Ki te taha o tōku māmā
No Ngāpuhi ahau
No Ngāti Hamoa tōku hoa rangatira ā Ioane Filia
I am a 52-year-old woman
Married to Ioane John Filia, we have 4 children, 3 independent aged 26, 30, 31 and 1 dependent 15-year-old
Sharing my experiences since diagnosed with a grade 4 Glioblastoma brain tumour. He Oranga Pumau.
Tāpiri Mai
Moira Lomas (Ngāi Tahu, Kāti Mamoe, Waitaha) is the Project Manager for Tāpiri Mai.
Passionate about equity, she works across Māori initiatives, bringing experience in corporate management, governance, health, education, arts, and climate resilience. Moira is Chair of Ngāi Tahu ki Tauranga Moana and lives in Pāpāmoa with her partner, enjoying their empty nest, the achievements of their seven grown children, and the sound of the ocean.
Hera Murray, (Whakatohea, Ngai Tai, Ngā Puhi, and Te Arawa), serves as a Registered Nurse and Tāpiri Mai coordinator at the local Health Provider (Te Awanui Hauora) on Matakana Island.
Dedicated to ensuring her community has timely access to culturally appropriate quality healthcare, Hera brings experience from a busy hospital medical ward and specialised training in diabetes education. Hera resides with her husband and three children on Matakana Island but also works part time at a General Practice on the” mainland” navigating journeys by boat, often challenged by the weather, tides, and the sea's mood.
Moira Lomas
Moira Lomas (Ngāi Tahu, Kāti Mamoe, Waitaha) is the Project Manager for Tāpiri Mai.
Passionate about equity, she works across Māori initiatives, bringing experience in corporate management, governance, health, education, arts, and climate resilience. Moira is Chair of Ngāi Tahu ki Tauranga Moana and lives in Pāpāmoa with her partner, enjoying their empty nest, the achievements of their seven grown children, and the sound of the ocean.
Hera Murray
Hera Murray, (Whakatohea, Ngai Tai, Ngā Puhi, and Te Arawa), serves as a Registered Nurse and Tāpiri Mai coordinator at the local Health Provider (Te Awanui Hauora) on Matakana Island.
Dedicated to ensuring her community has timely access to culturally appropriate quality healthcare, Hera brings experience from a busy hospital medical ward and specialised training in diabetes education. Hera resides with her husband and three children on Matakana Island but also works part time at a General Practice on the” mainland” navigating journeys by boat, often challenged by the weather, tides, and the sea's mood.
Young Voices Panel
Josh was born and raised in Rotorua by his mum and dad with his two sisters and two young aunts. Whānau has played a major role in his life; his paternal grandparents helped a lot with family care when cancer diagnoses impacted his family.
Josh and his older sister were both diagnosed with childhood leukaemia; His sister in 2003, and Josh in 2008. He has spent much of his life shuffled around various parts of the health system, due to a raft of chemo-related side effects affecting his bones, heart, liver, blood, mental health and the removal of a major organ.
Josh has become a global AYA Cancer Advocate, a Youth Leader, Board Director and the current National President for Canteen Aotearoa – a non-profit supporting rangatahi impacted by cancer.
Josh graduated Waipapa Taumata Rau University of Auckland in 2025 with a Bachelor of Arts, with a focus on International Relations including global health policy and security.
Natasha is a disability advocate who has lived experience with an invisible disability called foetal valproate syndrome. She also has lived experience with anxiety.
Natasha has input to the digital experience framework at Health NZ Te Whatu Ora and met with the Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment to create a better workforce plan for people with disabilities.
Ko Hikurangi te Maunga
Ko Waiapu te Awa
Ko Ngati Porou te Iwi
Ko Te Whanau a Ruataupare te Hapu
Ko Stanley King Ahau
Stan brings a strong foundation of whānau ties and whakapapa to Ngāti Porou, Rongomaiwahine, Ngāti Kahungunu, and Ngāi Tahu. He is a passionate consumer and whānau voice for equitable, culturally grounded health care. Stan draws strength from his identity and lived experience with Factor V Leiden deficiency, as well as supporting his sister through Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension and his mother through health challenges.
His work is shaped by his personal and whānau experiences and a dedication to uplifting both his wider community and the rainbow whānau he represents. An example of Stan’s commitment to his community is his work presenting Mental health awareness and suicide prevention workshops for Mates of Tairawhiti.
Stan champions care that is clinically sound, culturally safe and honours the strength of tikanga and mātauranga Māori.
Eden is a passionate advocate for equity within health. His commitment to improving health outcomes is deeply rooted in his values, including his faith, which guides his passion for service and community well-being. Eden is dedicated to driving change through policy, governance, and leadership. He serves on the National Medicines Steering Group at the Ministry of Health, is a member of the Clinical Quality and Safety Committee at Health NZ Te Whatu Ora and is the interim chair of the YMCA North Youth Advisory Panel.
Kia ora my name is Kim Pollock and I'm from Windy Wellington. I've been part of Ilead since early 2020 through my other mahi, People First and now I'm on the Wellington Committee.
I've been a young voice advocate for as long as I can remember and I've been involved in a lot of consultations that involve being a voice for the youth.
Josh McMillan
Josh was born and raised in Rotorua by his mum and dad with his two sisters and two young aunts. Whānau has played a major role in his life; his paternal grandparents helped a lot with family care when cancer diagnoses impacted his family.
Josh and his older sister were both diagnosed with childhood leukaemia; His sister in 2003, and Josh in 2008. He has spent much of his life shuffled around various parts of the health system, due to a raft of chemo-related side effects affecting his bones, heart, liver, blood, mental health and the removal of a major organ.
Josh has become a global AYA Cancer Advocate, a Youth Leader, Board Director and the current National President for Canteen Aotearoa – a non-profit supporting rangatahi impacted by cancer.
Josh graduated Waipapa Taumata Rau University of Auckland in 2025 with a Bachelor of Arts, with a focus on International Relations including global health policy and security.
Natasha Astill
Natasha is a disability advocate who has lived experience with an invisible disability called foetal valproate syndrome. She also has lived experience with anxiety.
Natasha has input to the digital experience framework at Health NZ Te Whatu Ora and met with the Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment to create a better workforce plan for people with disabilities.
Stanley King
Ko Hikurangi te Maunga
Ko Waiapu te Awa
Ko Ngati Porou te Iwi
Ko Te Whanau a Ruataupare te Hapu
Ko Stanley King Ahau
Stan brings a strong foundation of whānau ties and whakapapa to Ngāti Porou, Rongomaiwahine, Ngāti Kahungunu, and Ngāi Tahu. He is a passionate consumer and whānau voice for equitable, culturally grounded health care. Stan draws strength from his identity and lived experience with Factor V Leiden deficiency, as well as supporting his sister through Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension and his mother through health challenges.
His work is shaped by his personal and whānau experiences and a dedication to uplifting both his wider community and the rainbow whānau he represents. An example of Stan’s commitment to his community is his work presenting Mental health awareness and suicide prevention workshops for Mates of Tairawhiti.
Stan champions care that is clinically sound, culturally safe and honours the strength of tikanga and mātauranga Māori.
Eden Li
Eden is a passionate advocate for equity within health. His commitment to improving health outcomes is deeply rooted in his values, including his faith, which guides his passion for service and community well-being. Eden is dedicated to driving change through policy, governance, and leadership. He serves on the National Medicines Steering Group at the Ministry of Health, is a member of the Clinical Quality and Safety Committee at Health NZ Te Whatu Ora and is the interim chair of the YMCA North Youth Advisory Panel.
Kim Pollock
Kia ora my name is Kim Pollock and I'm from Windy Wellington. I've been part of Ilead since early 2020 through my other mahi, People First and now I'm on the Wellington Committee.
I've been a young voice advocate for as long as I can remember and I've been involved in a lot of consultations that involve being a voice for the youth.
Whaikaha discussion
“Disabled People Thriving in Aotearoa New Zealand” is the guiding vision of Whaikaha – Ministry of Disabled People. This vision reflects our commitment to driving real and meaningful change for disabled people and tāngata whaikaha Māori, ensuring their voices, aspirations, and leadership are central to decision-making.
Geneva Hakaraia-Tino (Kaitohutohu Tūhono Māori – Māori Engagement Lead), Kellye Bensley (Senior Advisor – NZSL), and Kerrie Morgan (Senior Advisor) will share insights into best practice approaches for engaging with disabled people, tāngata whaikaha Māori, Deaf people, Turi Māori, and whānau. Drawing on lived experience, cultural knowledge, and inclusive practice, they will explore how authentic engagement can empower communities, uphold Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and foster equity across systems.
This kōrero will offer practical strategies (Whaimana – Support My Decisions), the implementation of United Nations Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities (UNCRPD) and highlight the importance of relational approaches in building a truly inclusive Aotearoa.”
Whaikaha
“Disabled People Thriving in Aotearoa New Zealand” is the guiding vision of Whaikaha – Ministry of Disabled People. This vision reflects our commitment to driving real and meaningful change for disabled people and tāngata whaikaha Māori, ensuring their voices, aspirations, and leadership are central to decision-making.
Geneva Hakaraia-Tino (Kaitohutohu Tūhono Māori – Māori Engagement Lead), Kellye Bensley (Senior Advisor – NZSL), and Kerrie Morgan (Senior Advisor) will share insights into best practice approaches for engaging with disabled people, tāngata whaikaha Māori, Deaf people, Turi Māori, and whānau. Drawing on lived experience, cultural knowledge, and inclusive practice, they will explore how authentic engagement can empower communities, uphold Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and foster equity across systems.
This kōrero will offer practical strategies (Whaimana – Support My Decisions), the implementation of United Nations Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities (UNCRPD) and highlight the importance of relational approaches in building a truly inclusive Aotearoa.”
The Code of expectations
DJ Adams (Ngāti Kahungunu ki Te Wairoa, Ngāti Maniapoto)
Born and raised in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, DJ has experienced the health system personally and through the experience of his whānau, many of whom passed away too early from preventable disease.
DJ was an inaugural member of the Waitematā district health board’s consumer council, its deputy chair and for a short time, chair. He was a consumer member of the consumer and whānau engagement quality and safety marker (QSM) working group.
As a member of the Commission’s Consumer Network, he was involved in the development of the Code of expectations.
In 2021 DJ moved to Wellington to work for the Commission as a Consumer Advisor. He is passionate about consumer and whānau voice, supporting the implementation of the Code of expectations and demonstrating the value and impact of effective consumer and whānau engagement.
Carlton Irving (Te Whakatōhea, Te Ūpokorehe)
Carlton is the Director of Māori Health and Consumer at the Health Quality & Safety Commission Te Tāhū Hauora. A doctor and registered paramedic, he has spent more than two decades in emergency and rural health. His mahi is grounded in equity and in the belief that the voices of patients and whānau must be at the heart of care. Guided by aroha and whanaungatanga, Carlton works to ensure services are designed with and for communities, so people are seen, heard, and cared for with dignity.
DJ Adams
DJ Adams (Ngāti Kahungunu ki Te Wairoa, Ngāti Maniapoto)
Born and raised in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, DJ has experienced the health system personally and through the experience of his whānau, many of whom passed away too early from preventable disease.
DJ was an inaugural member of the Waitematā district health board’s consumer council, its deputy chair and for a short time, chair. He was a consumer member of the consumer and whānau engagement quality and safety marker (QSM) working group.
As a member of the Commission’s Consumer Network, he was involved in the development of the Code of expectations.
In 2021 DJ moved to Wellington to work for the Commission as a Consumer Advisor. He is passionate about consumer and whānau voice, supporting the implementation of the Code of expectations and demonstrating the value and impact of effective consumer and whānau engagement.
Carlton Irving
Carlton Irving (Te Whakatōhea, Te Ūpokorehe)
Carlton is the Director of Māori Health and Consumer at the Health Quality & Safety Commission Te Tāhū Hauora. A doctor and registered paramedic, he has spent more than two decades in emergency and rural health. His mahi is grounded in equity and in the belief that the voices of patients and whānau must be at the heart of care. Guided by aroha and whanaungatanga, Carlton works to ensure services are designed with and for communities, so people are seen, heard, and cared for with dignity.
Listening to our communities
Hailing from Porirua, Zechariah has lived experience of inequalities for Pacific peoples from a young age. From living in cold and damp social housing through to discrimination with his own journey in the health system.
Through these experiences, Zechariah was encouraged to become involved in several community networks, organisations and social marketing campaigns to promote the needs of his people. He is proud now to have a voice that represents his various Pacific communities.
Zechariah believes it is important to understand and use collective Pacific models of health in promoting system change and, ultimately better health outcomes.
He is pleased to be involved in the consumer network and looks forward to having a strong voice in making a positive contribution for his communities.
Cherie Seamark (Te Ātiawa ki Whakarongotai, Ngāti Toa Rangatira)
Cherie is the current CEO for Te Awakairangi Health Network in the Hutt Valley. She has extensive experience in the health sector including as General Manager, Primary and Community Care at Te Aka Whai Ora, Director Māori at Tū Ora Compass and Tumuaki of Hora Te Pai health services.
Cherie has considerable governance experience including being the current Chair of Te Ātiawa ki Whakarongotai Charitable Trust and a Director of Te Ātiawa ki Whakarongotai Asset holding company.
With a background in health leadership, particularly in Māori health services, Cherie brings a wealth of experience in managing and improving health outcomes.
She is committed to improving health systems and practice throughout the health system, primary care in particular in particular primary care to ensure meaningful engagement by whānau Māori, to reach their oranga aspirations.
Cherie views primary care as being the first door to a complicated health care system.
Zechariah Reuelu
Hailing from Porirua, Zechariah has lived experience of inequalities for Pacific peoples from a young age. From living in cold and damp social housing through to discrimination with his own journey in the health system.
Through these experiences, Zechariah was encouraged to become involved in several community networks, organisations and social marketing campaigns to promote the needs of his people. He is proud now to have a voice that represents his various Pacific communities.
Zechariah believes it is important to understand and use collective Pacific models of health in promoting system change and, ultimately better health outcomes.
He is pleased to be involved in the consumer network and looks forward to having a strong voice in making a positive contribution for his communities.
Cherie Seamark
Cherie Seamark (Te Ātiawa ki Whakarongotai, Ngāti Toa Rangatira)
Cherie is the current CEO for Te Awakairangi Health Network in the Hutt Valley. She has extensive experience in the health sector including as General Manager, Primary and Community Care at Te Aka Whai Ora, Director Māori at Tū Ora Compass and Tumuaki of Hora Te Pai health services.
Cherie has considerable governance experience including being the current Chair of Te Ātiawa ki Whakarongotai Charitable Trust and a Director of Te Ātiawa ki Whakarongotai Asset holding company.
With a background in health leadership, particularly in Māori health services, Cherie brings a wealth of experience in managing and improving health outcomes.
She is committed to improving health systems and practice throughout the health system, primary care in particular in particular primary care to ensure meaningful engagement by whānau Māori, to reach their oranga aspirations.
Cherie views primary care as being the first door to a complicated health care system.
Marae based clinics
Justin has been with Pinnacle since 2013 in a variety of roles, and has over 20 years’ experience working in New Zealand’s health system. His general practice knowledge, and clinical background as an intensive care paramedic, give him a deep understanding of the complexities the health workforce face on a daily basis.
Health system leadership is Justin’s area of special interest, and he holds a Masters in Strategic Leadership and Innovation. Justin enjoys fostering collaboration to solve problems and develop new services. He played a key role in the development of the Te Manawanui integrated primary mental health and addiction service, and establishing Pinnacle’s partnership with Parihaka Papakāinga Trust to deliver culturally appropriate health care in the Taranaki region.
Justin Butcher
Justin has been with Pinnacle since 2013 in a variety of roles, and has over 20 years’ experience working in New Zealand’s health system. His general practice knowledge, and clinical background as an intensive care paramedic, give him a deep understanding of the complexities the health workforce face on a daily basis.
Health system leadership is Justin’s area of special interest, and he holds a Masters in Strategic Leadership and Innovation. Justin enjoys fostering collaboration to solve problems and develop new services. He played a key role in the development of the Te Manawanui integrated primary mental health and addiction service, and establishing Pinnacle’s partnership with Parihaka Papakāinga Trust to deliver culturally appropriate health care in the Taranaki region.
Getting back on track
Kaaren Mathias is a public health physician and associate professor at the University of Canterbury. Her research has a focus on participation, equity, care by non-regulated professionals, lived experience, community mental health systems and youth mental health.
Martin is an individual with his own ‘lived experience’ of mental distress and addiction, and now enjoys sustained recovery. He has a long history in systemic advocacy in Mental Health and Addiction, having held national, regional and local roles. He has postgraduate qualifications in Physical Education and Public Health. He is currently a Clinical Lecturer, at the University of Otago, and simultaneously pursuing additional PG qualifications. He is Tangata Tiriti, grounded and guided.
Kaaren Mathias
Kaaren Mathias is a public health physician and associate professor at the University of Canterbury. Her research has a focus on participation, equity, care by non-regulated professionals, lived experience, community mental health systems and youth mental health.
Martin Burke
Martin is an individual with his own ‘lived experience’ of mental distress and addiction, and now enjoys sustained recovery. He has a long history in systemic advocacy in Mental Health and Addiction, having held national, regional and local roles. He has postgraduate qualifications in Physical Education and Public Health. He is currently a Clinical Lecturer, at the University of Otago, and simultaneously pursuing additional PG qualifications. He is Tangata Tiriti, grounded and guided.
Health agency panel
Norma was a registered nurse by profession, with a background in emergency medicine.
She has held leadership positions as Director of Nursing for the NHS Direct in the UK and Director of Operations in the UK and New Zealand ambulance sectors.
Norma moved to New Zealand in 2013 as the National Clinical Operations Director for Hato Hone St John Ambulance. She was the Director of Operations during major incidents including the Kaikoura earthquake, Christchurch terror attack and Whakaari White Island eruption.
Throughout her career, Norma’s focus has been on patient safety and implementing quality improvement programmes. She has always been passionate about consumer engagement and ensuring service users have an equal voice at the table.
Norma joined NZ Blood in 2021 as the National Clinical Governance Lead where she has implemented a clinical governance framework across the organisation. She also represented NZ Blood on the Health Quality & Safety Commission Te Tāhū Hauora advisory group prior to the launch of the Code of expectations.
Deputy Commissioner, Disability | Te Toihau Hauātanga Tuarua
Rose was appointed the Health and Disability Commission’s (HDC) Deputy Commissioner, Disability in 2013.
She is focused on the rights of disabled people when using health and disability services and is committed to improving the accessibility and responsiveness of HDC’s complaints process for disabled people tāngata whaikaha.
In 2023/24 she led the development of an HDC disability strategy which supports the rights of disabled people tāngata whaikaha to be understood and upheld; and aims to address the systemic issues identified through HDC’s engagement and complaints data.
Carlton Irving (Te Whakatōhea, Te Ūpokorehe)
Carlton is the Director of Māori Health and Consumer at the Health Quality & Safety Commission TeTāhū Hauora. A doctor and registered paramedic, he has spent more than two decades in emergency and rural health. His mahi is grounded in equity and in the belief that the voices of patients and whānau must be at the heart of care. Guided by aroha and whanaungatanga, Carlton works to ensure services are designed with and for communities, so people are seen, heard, and cared for with dignity.
Sarah Jackson brings extensive experience in advancing the quality and safety of care for patients and their whānau. A qualified anaesthetist with a clinical specialty in neuroanaesthesia, she currently serves as National Chief, Quality and Patient Safety at Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora.
Her previous leadership roles include Interim Chief Medical Officer and Executive Director of Clinical Excellence at Capital, Coast and Hutt Valley.
Sarah has contributed to research on ethnic disparities in postoperative mortality, with a particular focus on outcomes for Māori and non-Māori patients - an area that continues to inform her commitment to equity in healthcare.
A strong advocate for compassionate, values-based leadership, Sarah believes that effective leadership begins with self-awareness and self-compassion, principles that underpin her approach to leading teams and driving system-wide improvement.
Director Equity and Engagement, Pharmac
Nicola joined Pharmac in July 2023 and has extensive experience as a senior public servant working within the Crown/Māori and Pacific context. With a background in the diplomatic service, law and human rights Nicola has a keen interest in promoting equity in particular in a health context.
Nicola serves on the Boards of the Royal New Zealand Ballet and Tāwhiri Festivals & Experiences (Aotearoa New Zealand Festival of the Arts). Her previous Board roles include Diversity Works New Zealand (Ministerial appointment) and Endometriosis New Zealand. Nicola is a Member of the NZ Institute of Directors and holds a Doctor of Government (PhD) from Victoria University of Wellington.
Ngāti Porou, Te Aitanga ā Hauiti, Ngāi Tāmanuhiri, Ngāti Apakura, Ngāpuhi.
Kaihautū, Chief Advisor Māori at the Ministry of Disabled People, Whaikaha.
Ronelle has worked in a range of roles across the health and disability, community and government sectors and is a passionate advocate for improving wellbeing, equity and inclusion for disabled people, tāngata whaikaha Māori and their whānau.
Her former roles include serving on the board of Mana Mokopuna - the Children and Young People's Commission, Principal Advisor Accessibility for Stats NZ, Chief Executive of the Muscular Dystrophy Association of NZ, and Allied Health Leader for Child, Women and Family Services at Waitematā District Health Board.
In her current role as Kaihautū Chief Advisor Māori at the Ministry of Disabled People, Whaikaha, Ronelle contributes as a strategic leader on disability issues across government. This work is underpinned by Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).
Ronelle lives in Te Tai Tokerau with her whānau and has inter-generational experience of Muscular Dystrophy. She uses a power chair for mobility and brings lived experience to the health agency panel.
Norma Lane
Norma was a registered nurse by profession, with a background in emergency medicine.
She has held leadership positions as Director of Nursing for the NHS Direct in the UK and Director of Operations in the UK and New Zealand ambulance sectors.
Norma moved to New Zealand in 2013 as the National Clinical Operations Director for Hato Hone St John Ambulance. She was the Director of Operations during major incidents including the Kaikoura earthquake, Christchurch terror attack and Whakaari White Island eruption.
Throughout her career, Norma’s focus has been on patient safety and implementing quality improvement programmes. She has always been passionate about consumer engagement and ensuring service users have an equal voice at the table.
Norma joined NZ Blood in 2021 as the National Clinical Governance Lead where she has implemented a clinical governance framework across the organisation. She also represented NZ Blood on the Health Quality & Safety Commission Te Tāhū Hauora advisory group prior to the launch of the Code of expectations.
Rose Wall
Deputy Commissioner, Disability | Te Toihau Hauātanga Tuarua
Rose was appointed the Health and Disability Commission’s (HDC) Deputy Commissioner, Disability in 2013.
She is focused on the rights of disabled people when using health and disability services and is committed to improving the accessibility and responsiveness of HDC’s complaints process for disabled people tāngata whaikaha.
In 2023/24 she led the development of an HDC disability strategy which supports the rights of disabled people tāngata whaikaha to be understood and upheld; and aims to address the systemic issues identified through HDC’s engagement and complaints data.
Carlton Irving
Carlton Irving (Te Whakatōhea, Te Ūpokorehe)
Carlton is the Director of Māori Health and Consumer at the Health Quality & Safety Commission TeTāhū Hauora. A doctor and registered paramedic, he has spent more than two decades in emergency and rural health. His mahi is grounded in equity and in the belief that the voices of patients and whānau must be at the heart of care. Guided by aroha and whanaungatanga, Carlton works to ensure services are designed with and for communities, so people are seen, heard, and cared for with dignity.
Sarah Jackson
Sarah Jackson brings extensive experience in advancing the quality and safety of care for patients and their whānau. A qualified anaesthetist with a clinical specialty in neuroanaesthesia, she currently serves as National Chief, Quality and Patient Safety at Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora.
Her previous leadership roles include Interim Chief Medical Officer and Executive Director of Clinical Excellence at Capital, Coast and Hutt Valley.
Sarah has contributed to research on ethnic disparities in postoperative mortality, with a particular focus on outcomes for Māori and non-Māori patients - an area that continues to inform her commitment to equity in healthcare.
A strong advocate for compassionate, values-based leadership, Sarah believes that effective leadership begins with self-awareness and self-compassion, principles that underpin her approach to leading teams and driving system-wide improvement.
Dr Nicola Ngawati (Ngāpuhi, Ngati Hine)
Director Equity and Engagement, Pharmac
Nicola joined Pharmac in July 2023 and has extensive experience as a senior public servant working within the Crown/Māori and Pacific context. With a background in the diplomatic service, law and human rights Nicola has a keen interest in promoting equity in particular in a health context.
Nicola serves on the Boards of the Royal New Zealand Ballet and Tāwhiri Festivals & Experiences (Aotearoa New Zealand Festival of the Arts). Her previous Board roles include Diversity Works New Zealand (Ministerial appointment) and Endometriosis New Zealand. Nicola is a Member of the NZ Institute of Directors and holds a Doctor of Government (PhD) from Victoria University of Wellington.
Ronelle Baker
Ngāti Porou, Te Aitanga ā Hauiti, Ngāi Tāmanuhiri, Ngāti Apakura, Ngāpuhi.
Kaihautū, Chief Advisor Māori at the Ministry of Disabled People, Whaikaha.
Ronelle has worked in a range of roles across the health and disability, community and government sectors and is a passionate advocate for improving wellbeing, equity and inclusion for disabled people, tāngata whaikaha Māori and their whānau.
Her former roles include serving on the board of Mana Mokopuna - the Children and Young People's Commission, Principal Advisor Accessibility for Stats NZ, Chief Executive of the Muscular Dystrophy Association of NZ, and Allied Health Leader for Child, Women and Family Services at Waitematā District Health Board.
In her current role as Kaihautū Chief Advisor Māori at the Ministry of Disabled People, Whaikaha, Ronelle contributes as a strategic leader on disability issues across government. This work is underpinned by Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).
Ronelle lives in Te Tai Tokerau with her whānau and has inter-generational experience of Muscular Dystrophy. She uses a power chair for mobility and brings lived experience to the health agency panel.
Dave Letele
“Having grown up with a father who was the president of the Mongrel Mob and in and out of prison throughout his childhood, Dave understands what it means to struggle.
It took Dave a near-death experience to pull him out of a downward spiral. From there, he embarked on a journey that led to him owning several businesses, playing rugby league all over the world, becoming a professional boxer, losing almost 100 kg in body weight, and starting over.
Dave is an inspiration to thousands of Kiwis, achieving his transformation purely through hard work and dedication. Starting his platform via his private Facebook group where over 10,000 people have achieved life-changing levels of weight loss, Dave went on to found his company Buttabean Motivation (BBM), where he and his team are currently working with public health and social service providers across Auckland to deliver his highly effective BBM programs to improve the health outcomes for obese people.
In 2022, Dave was awarded with the Kiwibank New Zealand Local Hero of the year Award for his incredible work across Aotearoa.”
Biography provided by Celebrity Speakers
Sunny Collings, Chief Executive, Health Quality & Safety Commission Te Tāhū Hauora
Professor Sunny Collings joined the Commission in August 2025.
Her previous roles include Chief Executive of the Health Research Council of New Zealand and Dean and Head of Campus at the University of Otago.
She is a Professor of Psychiatry, with a long-standing focus on public and mental health, and how research can contribute to better health outcomes.
With more than 25 years of clinical and research experience, Professor Collings has been an advocate for improving health outcomes, particularly for communities underserved by the system.
She has a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery degree, a PhD and a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health, from the University of Otago, and is a Fellow of the Royal College of Psychiatrists and the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists.
Join the Consumer health forum Aotearoa
The forum is designed for consumers and whānau to engage with the health sector and get actively involved in decision-making about their health. We link health organisations to consumer groups, at the right level, in the right way.
It’s a voluntary network of consumers including whānau, individuals, groups and organisations.
Order free resources
Order online or pick one up from the Commission’s stall on the day.
Both resources are available in English, te reo Maori, Tongan, Cook Islands Maori, Tokelauan, Tuvaluan, Niuean, Rotuman, Fijian, Kiribati, Hindi and Chinese (Mandarin), New Zealand Sign Language, audio, braille, large print and Easy Read.
Let’s plan for your next health care visit
This resource is a handy checklist to help plan and think about questions to ask when visiting the GP.
Download resource or order hard copies here
Let’s plan to leave hospital
This resource has prompts to ask when preparing to leave hospital, follow up appointments, medication, and what to do afterwards.
Code of expectations
The code of expectations for health entities’ engagement with consumers and whānau sets the expectations for how health entities must work with consumers, whānau and communities in the planning, design, delivery and evaluation of health services.
Code of expectations implementation guide
The code of expectations for health entities’ engagement with consumers and whānau details how health entities must apply the code. This implementation guide provides information and resources to help them implement the code.
Consumer and whānau engagement quality and safety marker
The consumer and whānau engagement quality and safety marker (QSM) highlights examples of how health care organisations are engaging with consumers, whānau and communities in the design, delivery and evaluation of the Aotearoa New Zealand health system.
Use the SURE (Supporting, Understanding, Responding and Evaluating) framework to measure what successful consumer, whānau and community engagement looks like and how it improves the quality and safety of services
Read more about the consumer engagement quality and safety marker
Three steps to meeting health literacy needs
Guide for health care professionals. It provides a process to follow with every person in every health care discussion. The three-step process will help you reinforce the useful knowledge and skills people already have, identify and build the knowledge and skills they need and check you’ve been effective at doing so.