- Full-time, permanent positions
- Multiple roles based in the following regions
- Te Ikaroa, Central Region
- Te Waipounamu, South Island
Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is firmly grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and is committed to building a health system that serves all New Zealanders.
About the Role
The Principal Portfolio Lead supports the Regional Group Manager for Service Improvement, in driving meaningful change for whānau Māori across the region. It serves as a trusted source of expertise within its allocated portfolio, while also providing quality assurance and mentoring across Service Improvement initiatives—both within the immediate team and across regional teams—to ensure consistency, impact, and continuous improvement.
About the Team/Service
As the Hauora Māori Service of Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora (Health NZ) our core role is to ensure New Zealanders have better and more timely access to health care. The devolution of resources and decision making to the regions ensures those closest to service users and whānau are involved in decisions on how healthcare is delivered. We are committed to ensuring our operating model is responsive to the needs of Māori.
About you
You bring a wealth of experience in strategic planning, high-level advisory, and portfolio leadership within complex and dynamic organisational environments. With a deep understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its application in practice, you work collaboratively across diverse stakeholder groups to influence and drive impactful, system-level change. Your strong track record in service and systems improvement, coupled with expertise in workforce planning and capability development, has played a pivotal role in advancing Māori outcomes and enhancing organisational performance.
You will have:
- Experience in advisory or a related field with at least 8 years of experience in a similar role within a large organisation
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to draft key governance documents and materials
- Knowledge and practical experience in applying Mātauranga Māori and Kaupapa Māori approaches
- Proven analytical skills and problem-solving skills, with experience in the health sector considered an advantage
Working at Health New Zealand
Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand. We embrace a workforce that is diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand and service our community. We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities.
How to Apply
To apply please click “apply now.” All applications must be submitted through our online careers' portal by 29 August 2025. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Zerissa Ong on [email protected]
Whilst Health New Zealand is undergoing change affected kaimahi (staff) will be given preference and priority for this position.
