Health Minister Appoints Four New Members to Nursing Council of New Zealand

Tags: Simeon Brown Alex Gordon Amanda Singleton Helen Nielsen Julia Hennessy Nursing Council New Zealand health leadership nursing clinical experience

Published: 19 February 2026 | Views: 34

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Health Minister Simeon Brown has today announced four appointments to the Nursing Council of New Zealand, ensuring the Council continues to provide effective leadership across the sector.

The newly appointed members are: Alex Gordon – Lay member Amanda Singleton – Lay member Helen Nielsen – Health practitioner member Dr Julia Hennessy – Health practitioner member The Nursing Council plays a vital role in protecting the health and safety of New Zealanders by ensuring nurses are competent and fit to practise.

These members bring a mix of governance, senior health sector leadership, and clinical experience, and I thank each of the appointees for their commitment to patients, Mr Brown says.

All terms of office commence today.

Biographies Alex Gordon has a background in health service management and leadership and is currently the Chief Executive Officer of Hospice Waikato. Alex has more than 20 years of experience in health services management at both a strategic and operational level.

Amanda Singleton is a professional director and independent consultant with a background in the electricity, water, and telecommunications sector. Amanda holds several current board and chair roles.

Helen Nielsen is an experienced nurse and clinical tutor with over 40 years in the profession. Helen has a strong background in education through a range of academic roles.

Dr Julia Hennessy is a health and education consultant with extensive governance and senior leadership experience across tertiary education, health, and mental health.

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