Te Whatu Ora/Health New Zealand

On the 1 July 2022 we moved to Te Whatu Ora (Health New Zealand) and the Te Aka Whai Ora (the Maori Health Authority).

This move followed the Health and Disability Review. The Transition Unit was established by Cabinet in September 2020 following consideration of the Health and Disability System Review / Hauora Manaaki Ki Aotearoa Whānui (the Review).

The Transition Unit led the response to the Review, including developing the policy response and design of the system operating model, providing advice on the establishment of new entities and legislative change. STONZ as part of the CTU (Council of trade unions) was involved in the consultation and establishment process.

STONZ strongly advocated at every opportunity for RMOs, and that this transition be used as an opportunity to make positive change for the entire healthcare workforce now, and in the future.

Following the change of government in 2023, in February 2024 the Pae Ora (Disestablishment of the Māori Health Authority) Amendment Bill was passed by the Government under urgency.

As the name of the new legislation suggests, the Māori Health Authority - Te Aka Whai Ora will be disestablished on 30 June 2024. 

Advocacy continues for all healthcare workers to help build and navigate the new framework, and the team at STONZ are involved at local, regional and national levels to further this mahi.