Raukura Hauora o Tainui CEO, Sarina Ponga, Appointed to National Cervical Screening Programme Parliamentary Review Committee

We are incredibly proud to announce that our Chief Executive, Sarina Ponga, has been appointed by the Minister of Health as an Independent Member of the National Cervical Screening Programme Parliamentary Review Committee.

This significant appointment will see Sarina contribute an independent and community-focused voice to a review critical to the health of all New Zealanders.

Sarina shared her perspective on the honour and importance of the role:

"I am honoured to share that I have been appointed by the Minister of Health as an Independent Member of the National Cervical Screening Program Parliamentary Review Committee," Sarina said.

"This role is significant because independent voices ensure accountability, transparency, and equity in shaping health policy. My motivation is deeply personal – to be part of creating systematic changes that safeguard the health and wellbeing of our daughters and mokopuna, now and for generations to come."

This appointment is a direct and powerful reflection of our core values at Raukura Hauora o Tainui. Sarina's leadership in this space will provide a crucial platform to advocate for health equity for Māori.

"Aligned with Raukura Hauora o Tainui values, this appointment reflects our commitment to culturally responsive care and the pursuit of excellence for our people," Sarina explained.

"It is an opportunity to influence change at a direct political level for waahine Māori, ensuring their voices and needs are central in national health strategies."

The entire team at Raukura Hauora o Tainui congratulates Sarina on this prestigious and vital appointment. We are proud to have a leader so dedicated to creating meaningful, systematic change and improving health outcomes for our communities.