Help shape the future of physiotherapy in Aotearoa New Zealand
Physiotherapy New Zealand (PNZ) is the national membership body representing physiotherapists across Aotearoa. Through advocacy, professional development, leadership, events and member services, PNZ supports physiotherapists to thrive and improve outcomes for the communities they serve.
As part of our commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and our partnership with Tae Ora Tinana (the Māori physiotherapy rōpū advancing hauora Māori through physiotherapy), we have created a new Pou Whakahaere role. This is a unique opportunity to help shape how tikanga Māori, Te Tiriti o Waitangi and hauora Māori are reflected across PNZ's leadership, events and everyday practice.
This is a part time fixed-term position to 30 June 2027 (0.2-0.4 FTE depending on candidate). The focus is on assessing current capability, starting to build the foundations and helping shape the future scope and priorities of the Pou Whakahaere role longer term.
About the role
This role is not expected to carry responsibility for all things Māori within PNZ. Instead, the Pou Whakahaere will help build the organisation's capability, confidence and systems so that responsibility for culturally safe and respectful practice is increasingly understood and shared across PNZ.
Initially, your focus will include:
reviewing PNZ's current tikanga Māori and Te Tiriti capability
identifying priorities and opportunities for improvement
developing practical resources and guidance for staff and volunteer leaders
supporting tikanga planning for significant PNZ events
strengthening relationships with mana whenua and key Māori stakeholders
helping shape the future direction of the Pou Whakahaere function within PNZ.
Working closely with the Chief Executive, PNZ Office staff, leaders and PNZ Executive (our Board of Directors), you will provide trusted advice, practical guidance and leadership to help PNZ continue its journey. The role will work alongside, but is distinct from, Tae Ora Tinana who are PNZ's Māori partner and the collective voice for Māori within physiotherapy.
What we are looking for
You will bring credibility, cultural leadership and a practical approach to supporting change. You have successfully worked at the interface between Māori aspirations and organisational systems and leadership. Relevant qualifications are welcomed, however we recognise that mātauranga, lived experience, community standing and practical leadership are equally important.
We are interested in people who can demonstrate:
strong knowledge of tikanga Māori, te ao Māori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi
confidence engaging with mana whenua and Māori organisations
experience providing advice, guidance or capability development
strong relationship-building and influencing skills
sound judgement and the ability to work strategically within a limited and focused work programme
commitment to advancing hauora Māori, equity and culturally safe practice.
What we offer
an opportunity to shape a new role in a purpose driven not-for-profit organisation
the chance to influence a national organisation and profession
a supportive Chief Executive and Board of Directors, committed to this kaupapa
close partnership with Tae Ora Tinana and other Māori leaders
Employment details
Fixed-term position to 30 June 2027
0.2 to 0.4 FTE (with some flexibility re hours/days)
Wellington based, with occasional travel required
Competitive remuneration based on experience and expertise
We are committed to a fair and respectful recruitment process that upholds mana, values diversity of thought and experience, and enables candidates to participate in a way that reflects their needs and preferences.
If there are reasonable adjustments or cultural considerations that would support your participation in the recruitment process, we encourage you to discuss these with us.
For a confidential discussion about the role, please contact Simon Hoar, Chief Executive of Physiotherapy New Zealand 04 801 6500. A Job Description is available on request via [email protected]
Applications close 5pm Wednesday 25 November.