Wahine makes history as first Māori head of School of Nursing

Josephine Davis (Ngāti Manu, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei) was formally appointed as the first Māori head of the School of Nursing at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland, in a ceremony at Waipapa Marae. Davis, who has nearly 40 years of experience in nursing practice, education, and Māori health advocacy, highlighted the significance of her role for young Māori students pursuing nursing careers. The appointment follows decades of Davis’s contributions, including being among New Zealand’s first Māori nurse practitioners. She reflected on her career, noting early frustrations with underrepresentation in nursing leadership and the need for further study to advance. Davis also acknowledged the evolving inclusion of mātauranga Māori and Māori values within the university and nursing sector. Davis emphasized the importance of visible Māori leadership, stating that seeing leaders who reflect their backgrounds inspires rangatahi (youth) to pursue similar roles. She pointed to progress in the sector, such as the appointment of two Māori chief nurses in Aotearoa, as evidence of growing opportunities for Māori nurses in senior positions. Her appointment coincides with Budget week and ongoing debates about nursing shortages and Māori health equity. Davis called for greater recognition and investment in nurses across New Zealand, acknowledging their vital work in a strained health system. She also honored her lineage, including a grandmother who served as a community healer, framing her leadership as a continuation of generational strength among Māori women. The ceremony, attended by whānau, colleagues, and supporters, marked a historic moment for Māori representation in nursing leadership. Davis expressed pride in her role while acknowledging the challenges ahead, including addressing systemic inequities and fulfilling Te Tiriti obligations within healthcare.