18 Jun 2026
4 months ago
790 views
Pharmac established the Consumer and Patient Working Group to improve its relationship with patients, resulting in enhanced patient engagement, transparency, and organizational culture over the past year. This collaboration led to practical changes such as a dedicated consumer relations function, improved consultation processes, and a refreshed strategic vision, benefiting over 360,000 patients through increased medicine funding decisions. While progress has been significant, Pharmac plans to continue prioritizing patient voices as it advances its long-term improvement program.
03 Jun 2026
4 months ago
892 views
Minister for Trade and Investment Todd McClay and French Minister Nicolas Forissier agreed to establish annual ministerial meetings to strengthen New Zealand-France trade, investment, and business collaboration. This initiative builds on the New Zealand-European Union Free Trade Agreement, which enhances opportunities for exporters and opens new pathways for engagement across sectors like technology, aviation, and agri-tech. The regular dialogue aims to create partnerships and growth by leveraging France's strengths and New Zealand's ambitions within a strong, rules-based trade framework.
30 Apr 2026
5 months ago
1042 views
Health Minister Simeon Brown has appointed Dr Margaret Whilsher, Dr Colin McArthur, and Paul Foster-Bell to the Health Research Council (HRC) Board for three-year terms, while reappointing Professor Lester Levy as Chair and Jeroen Douwes as Deputy Chair. The HRC is responsible for managing government investment in health research, advising on policy, administering funds, and promoting research findings. These appointments aim to ensure a strong, stable Board to provide effective governance amid significant science sector reforms.
29 Apr 2026
5 months ago
1053 views
Foreign Minister Winston Peters announced Hone McGregor as the new Chair of the Asia New Zealand Foundation, with Frances Valintine, Brahma Sharma, and Kenneth Leong joining the Board of Trustees. The new appointees bring diverse expertise to support the Foundation's mission of strengthening New Zealand-Asia connections. The appointments, effective from 1 May 2026, follow the departure of Chair Dame Fran Wilde and trustees Tina Porou, Carol Cheng, and Mitchell Pham.
24 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1169 views
Health Minister Simeon Brown has announced appointments and reappointments to four health regulatory authorities, including the Midwifery Council, Nursing Council of New Zealand, New Zealand Medical Radiation Technologists Board, and Medical Sciences Council of New Zealand. The appointees bring a wealth of experience and expertise to their respective councils and boards, ensuring the protection of the health and safety of New Zealanders. All terms of office for the appointees will commence on 29 September 2025, with each individual possessing unique qualifications and backgrounds in their fields.
19 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1163 views
Foreign Minister Winston Peters is attending the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York to reflect on the international rules-based system and advocate for reforms to address global challenges. He will participate in the Two State Solution conference, hold bilateral meetings, and deliver New Zealand’s national statement to the UN General Assembly. Peters will also gather information on conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, South Sudan, and Myanmar, including finalizing New Zealand’s position on the recognition of Palestine during his visit from September 21 to September 30.
15 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1321 views
The Government has appointed eight members to a Ministerial Advisory Group to provide advice on the Crown’s response to recommendations from the Abuse in Care Royal Commission of Inquiry. Lead Coordination Minister Erica Stanford emphasizes the Group will offer independent advice on the Crown’s response to abuse in care, drawing on diverse perspectives and expertise. The appointed members bring a range of experiences, such as survivor advocacy, governance leadership, and expertise in trauma and mental health, to facilitate constructive discussions and advice on monitoring, oversight, and implementation of the Crown response.
19 Aug 2025
1 year ago
1584 views
Foreign Minister Winston Peters has announced three new diplomatic appointments: Joanna Kempkers as Ambassador to France, Greg Andrews as High Commissioner to Fiji, and Angela Hassan-Sharp as Ambassador to Ireland. Peters made the appointments to strengthen diplomatic relations with these countries. The new ambassadors will represent New Zealand's interests and foster positive relationships in their respective postings.