New Health NZ chair, board members announced

Mark Darrow has been appointed chair of Health NZ for a three-year term, to replace outgoing chair Lester Levy.

His role will commence from May 1.

Health Minister Simeon Brown, who announced the appointment today alongside other new board members, said the changes reinforce Health NZ's focus on delivering for patients.

Brown said Darrow is an "experienced board chair and director with a strong track record across both the private and public sectors, including health".

"He brings expertise in finance, audit, risk, and assurance, which will be critical to driving performance and accountability."

In his announcement, he also acknowledged Levy's departure.

"I want to acknowledge the contribution of outgoing Chair Professor Lester Levy, who will finish his term as Chair of the Board at the end of this month.

"Through his leadership, first as Commissioner and then as Chair, Health New Zealand strengthened its financial performance and made meaningful progress against the Government’s health targets.

"Professor Levy’s deep health system and digital expertise will continue to be valuable to Health New Zealand, and he has generously agreed to offer his support during the transition."

Brown said Michael Schubert and Dr Bryan Betty were also appointed to the board, which he reinstated last year.

“Mr Schubert is a professional director experienced in supporting organisations with financial stewardship, audit and risk, and organisational change. He has governance experience in complex, highly regulated environments, including in health.

"Dr Betty is a specialist general practitioner who is well-respected as a sector leader and who has considerable governance experience. He will bring additional clinical and health system expertise to the Board, particularly in relation to primary care, which is a key priority for the Government."

Brown said the board will play a key role in supporting a transition to a nationally, planned "locally and regionally developed" health system.

From July 1, he said this will shift decision-making closer to patients, communities and frontline services, "helping ensure care is more responsive to local needs".

"I expect the Board to maintain its focus on strong governance and accountability, ensuring Health New Zealand operates efficiently, transparently, and with patients at the centre."

Brown also acknowledged Roger Jarrold, who would finish his term on the board at the end of July.

"He has made a significant contribution during his time as Deputy Commissioner and Board member, and his extensive financial expertise has helped instil greater discipline, sharpen performance, and strengthen accountability across Health New Zealand during a critical period of reform."

Dr Andrew Connolly, Dr Frances Hughes, Parekawhia McLean, Peter McCardle and Terry Moore remain on the board.