Dame Karen Poutasi. Photo: Supplied
Former director-general of health Dame Karen Poutasi is the new chair of Te Whatu Ora.
She replaced Rob Campbell, who was sacked in February for breaching public service neutrality rules when he criticised the National Party.
Dame Karen was a trained doctor and has held a series of high level public service roles, including 10 years as director-general of health until 2006.
She has been on the board of Te Whatu Ora since it was formed last year.
"This role is vital for continuing to lead the government's bold health reforms to make sure quality health services are delivered for every New Zealander," Minister of Health Ayesha Verrall said.
"I am delighted that Dame Karen is taking up the position and believe that she has the right level of experience and energy to take on such a large, exciting and complex role.
"I would like to thank Naomi Ferguson for the excellent work she did, when she stepped into the role of interim board chair while a permanent appointment was made."
Dame Karen's term will officially start on Saturday, 1 July.
