Lester Levy appointed new chairperson of Health NZ board

Lester Levy. Photo: Dr Lester Levy

Professor Lester Levy has been appointed the new chairperson of the Te Whatu Ora / Health New Zealand board.

Health Minister Dr Shane Reti said Levy had "extensive experience" in the health sector and would provide strong leadership throughout a period of ongoing change.

"The challenges Health NZ faces are a result of the poorly planned health reforms of the last government and have highlighted to me the urgent need for further transformation.

"Today's appointment of a new chair is in addition to the previous appointment of a Crown observer and a new board member with specialist financial expertise.

"These measures are part of our government's plan to put Health NZ on a better footing."

Reti said as Levy took up the role, there were some positive signs in the health workforce - with nursing numbers on the up.

"The nursing workforce has grown by over 1000 FTE so far in 2024, and the senior medical office workforce by more than 80 FTE. This comes on top of an increase of almost 2500 extra FTE nurses between December 2022 and December 2023.

"While nurse numbers are now generally tracking well, we know there's still work to do in mental health, midwifery and intensive care, and there are also needs in primary and community care."

Levy will start his role for a two-year term from 1 June.