18 March 2013: As part of its transition from a rules-based organisation to one governed by a constitution, the New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO) is pleased to welcome its joint heads who will work closely with the chief executive officer. Kaiwhakahaere, Kerri Nuku and incoming president, Marion Guy commenced their joint leadership positions last week.

NZNO is committed to strengthening its bicultural partnership by giving effect to the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Kaiwhakahaere o Runanga o Aoteroa NZNO, Kerri Nuku says, “This is an exciting time for NZNO. We have worked extremely hard to develop a model of partnership that upholds the mana of every member of NZNO. I am very proud that we have reached a place where tikanga and kawa underpins the way we work together.”

“Te Runanga’s whakatauki is “Ko Tāku Manawa ko tāu Manawa: from my heart to your heart” and it sums up well the relationships we are building and the way we are building them, “Nuku says.

NZNO president, Marion Guy says, “I feel privileged to be taking up the role of NZNO president at this time. Finding ways to practically express bicultural partnership in an organisation like NZNO is both a challenge and a gift. Our 46 000 members will benefit from the collective wisdom I see around our Board and Poari tables, and I am looking forward to leading the professional and industrial organisation for nursing and health with Kerri.”

“As kaumatua Rev Leo Te Kira said, “Me haeretahi tātou mō te hauora me te oranga o ngā iwi katoa o Aotearoa: Let us journey together for the health and wellbeing of the people of Aotearoa”. I am looking forward to the journey!” Guy says.