12 November 2026
The PHANZ Executive Council announces the departure of our Chief Executive, Dr Cadence Kaumoana, following more than three years of dedicated service to the Association.
Following the Government's decision in December 2025 to cut funding to the public health sector, including the withdrawal of 100% of PHANZ's government funding, she continued to provide leadership and stability, supporting members and maintaining essential operations through a challenging period.
Throughout her tenure, Dr Kaumoana strengthened membership, led the Association's national conference, supported PHANZ's public health advocacy and helped facilitate the handover of the 2028 World Congress on Public Health to New Zealand. She also guided the Association through significant organisational change.
We sincerely thank our Chief Executive for her tireless commitment to the kaupapa of PHANZ, her professionalism and her contribution to the Association. We wish her every success in her future endeavours.
PHANZ will now transition to an operating model overseen directly by the Executive Council while we determine the Association's next steps. Members will be kept informed as these arrangements progress.
PHANZ Co Presidents
On behalf of the Executive Council
Please send all communications to: admin@pha.org.nz