Te Whatu Ora Waitaha Canterbury Pānui Monday 3 July 2023

In this issue

Kupu Arataki – Introduction... pg 3-7

Quiz – Tennis... pg 8

Ā mātou korero – Our people

› Highly respected Medical Oncologist Bridget Robinson retires... pg 9

› Volunteer recognised with award... pg 10

› Simulation technicians celebrated... pg 11

› One minute with… Angel Chambers-Dumaguin, Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Older Person Health (fixed term) and Registered Nurse (RN)

Orthopaedic Rehabilitation Ward, Burwood Hospital ... pg 12

› Akoranga reo Māori – lesson #21 ... pg 13–14

› International winter warmer recipes... Banana and chocolate chip muffins... pg 15

Whakamihi – Bouquets... pg 16–18

Ā mātou korero – Our stories

› Spotlight on: Whakakotahi | Unify Programme... pg 19–20

› Initiatives to support rainbow kaimahi... pg 20

› Colouring competition celebrates ‘calming’ hobby... pg 21

Pānui – Notices... pg 22–25

Cover photo: From left, Christchurch Hospital Volunteer Sandra Palmer receives a Volunteer Recognition Award from Volunteering Canterbury representative Nicole

Kupu Arataki – Introduction

New Te Whatu Ora Board Chair appointed

Last week, Health Minister Hon. Dr Ayesha Verrall announced Dame Karen Poutasi as the new Chair of the Te Whatu Ora Board.

Dame Karen, who is a medically trained doctor, has significant governance and leadership experience in the public health and education sectors.

She is also Chair of Taumata Arowai – the Water Services Regulator and Kāpuhipuhi Wellington Uni-Professional and has been a board member of Te Whatu Ora since its establishment.

She was previously the Commissioner of Waikato District Health Board and Chair of the COVID-19 Immunisation Programme Governance Group.

Dame Karen’s previous executive positions have included Chief Executive of the New Zealand Qualifications Authority, Director-General of Health and Chief Executive, Ministry of Health.

Dame Karen’s sector knowledge and experience will be invaluable.

Dr Richard Sullivan appointed Interim Te Whatu Ora Chief Clinical Officer

Dr Richard Sullivan, who is currently the Deputy Chief Medical Officer and Director Surgery at Te Toka Tumai, has accepted a secondment to the role of Acting Chief Clinical Officer, previously held by Dr Pete Watson.

Richard brings a wealth of experience as a Medical Oncologist and was Director Northern Region Cancer and Blood Services for 17 years.

Richard is Regional Clinical Lead Cancer, the Chair of National AYA Cancer and is a director at Canopy Cancer Care.

Interim Te Whatu Ora Chief Clinical Officer Richard Sullivan

New Te Whatu Ora Board Chair Dame Karen Poutasi

International Paramedics Day

International Paramedics Day takes place on 8 July, the birthday of Dominique-Jean Larrey who is considered the ‘father’ of modernday ambulance services. A relatively young profession, the role of the paramedic has evolved beyond ambulance services with Hato Hone St John supporting youth and community programmes, first aid training, search and rescue, event health support (such as sporting events and concerts) and medical alarm services.

Hato Hone St John has existed in New Zealand since 1885 and countless lives have been saved by the paramedics who provide treatment and care to sick and injured people and safe and timely transport to hospital.

In New Zealand, the Hato Hone St John Ambulance Service attends nearly 390,000 emergency incidents and treats and transports over 460,000 people every year. They have more than 1,000 operational vehicles and 206 ambulance stations.

We are all extremely grateful to have these life saving services available and thank all our paramedics and supporting staff (many of whom are volunteers) for their dedication and expertise. To learn more about Hato Hone St John, the services offered and how you can donate, go to the website here

If you have a spare hour, listen to this fascinating podcast about the first (and often forgotten) paramedics in the United States – a group of Black men from one of the poorest suburbs of Pittsburgh.

Important change to prescription charges

Effective 1 July people no longer have to pay the standard $5 prescription charge (prescriptions are already free for children aged 13 and under).

This applies to $5 co-payments for prescriptions by approved providers. Prescriptions from specialists and non-publicly funded prescribers will still attract a $15 co-payment.

These prescriptions with a $15 co-payment will count towards the 20 prescription items a patient or family collect in a year. Once a person or family reach 20 prescription items in a year, they can get a Prescription Subsidy Card, which means they will not have to pay any more prescription charges until 1 February the following year. Click here for more information.

Pharmacies may charge for extra services such as medicines delivery or packaging. There may be an additional cost if a prescription medicine is not fully subsidised. Fees for medicines that are not fully funded by PHARMAC remain the same.

Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand Carer Support Subsidy

Te Whatu Ora is making changes to the Carer Support Subsidy to make it more helpful for people. Carer Support is available for ‘full-time carers’ and is intended to allow them to have breaks from their caring responsibilities.

A full time carer is the person who provides more than four hours per day unpaid care to a person in need for care.

The Carer Support Subsidy is accessed through a needs assessment from a Te Whatu Ora Needs Assessment Service Coordination (NASC) service. A general practice, mental health clinician or specialist may also be able to support people to access a Carer Support Subsidy.

Effective 1 July, improvements to Carer Support include:

› A national increase in the daily rate to at least $80

› Full-time carers can continue to use Carer Support as they do now but will also have the flexibility to buy items that provide them with respite – examples of this can be found online at Carer Support Subsidy – Te Whatu Ora - Health

New Zealand

› New purchasing guidelines have been published on the webpage to support carers with making claims

› Carer Support can be used to pay others in the household, so the full-time carer can have a break

› The subsidy funding can be used all at once, or through the year – it’s up to the carer and the family member they support to choose and organise respite that works best for them.

Te Whatu Ora has made these changes to support the wellbeing of family, whānau and aiga (family) carers. It recognises the importance of carers and their work and believes these changes will give carers greater options to assess wellbeing risks, and to reduce their well-known risks of stress and burnout.

For more information, you can email info@health. govt.nz, or visit Carer Support Subsidy – Te Whatu Ora - Health New Zealand

Single point of entry for all submission of business cases and scope changes

Effective today, Monday 3 July, a new way to help you submit all business cases/scope changes to your Finance Business Partnering Team has been introduced. This will enable you to monitor the progress of your case through the review and approval process.

Effective immediately, we request that you use a new submission portal to submit any business case or scope change for processing. This is a single point of entry for all cases:

› Minor Capex

› Major Capex

› Opex

Benefits to you:

› Streamlined process which will track your submission through Finance, Corporate Support and Approval.

› Visibility of where your case is at in the review/ approval workflow

Follow this link to a cheat sheet on how to access the Submission Portal, and submit your case. Support materials are available to orientate you in the process, including a video demonstration.

Protecting pēpi and tamariki from the flu

Flu season is in full swing and many infants and children are presenting to general practices, urgent care and the Emergency Department with influenza. Youngsters and particularly pēpi (babies) are vulnerable to the worst flu symptoms and at much higher risk if they are not vaccinated.

Flu vaccines are free for tamariki aged six months to 12 years and available from general practices, vaccination clinics and many pharmacies.

Protect your kids as well as the children and staff at their school, pre-school or day-care. Learn more here

Important announcements for Te Whatu Ora nurses

Over the weekend the government announced additional nursing student placements and today on the historic pay equity offer for nurses.

First National Clinical Network EOIs released

Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for the co-leadership of the first National Clinical Networks were released on Thursday 29 June.

The networks will be a core part of the new health system and will see clinical kaimahi from across professional disciplines working to deliver key system shifts – including ensuring equitable access to high quality emergency and specialist care.

We’re starting by transitioning existing networks, with EOIs for the co-leads of the first four - trauma, stroke, cardiac and renal - now open for three weeks.

These networks are also resourced and supported by Te Whatu Ora Hospital and Specialist Services (effective 1 July).

The current clinical leads of all four networks will remain in place until the new co-leads are appointed and existing work plans will be progressed during this period to maintain momentum.

The networks will report to an oversight group cochaired by Te Whatu Ora and Te Aka Whai Ora, which will each appoint a co-lead for every network. Representation from a broad range of clinical professions is sought for the co-lead roles and applications are particularly welcomed from Māori, Pacific people, disabled people, and the LGBTQI+ communities.

Further networks will be transitioned and established over the next 12 or so months.

Engagement with consumers, whānau and communities will be key to ensuring the networks deliver. There are a range of mechanisms for achieving this and formalising these will be one of the first priorities for each network.

Access the EOI, job descriptions and more information and the networks plan here and email any questions here.

Reminder about acting with integrity during the pre-election period

The official pre-election period begins on 14 July and those of us employed in the public service need to understand what is and isn’t appropriate during this time.

Generally appropriate although dependent on context:

› Chatting about politics or policy as part of a private conversation with interested colleagues

› Being a member of a political party

› Attending political party meetings or delivering pamphlets outside of work

› Sensible personal use of social media (though think carefully as this can be an easy area to cross the line from appropriate to inappropriate activity, particularly if you can be identified as a Te Whatu Ora employee)

› Standing for Parliament as a candidate, though you must disclose this (use the email below).

The following is not considered appropriate and acceptable conduct during an election period:

› Campaigning for a political party or a candidate in the workplace

› Providing your work contact details to political parties

› Engaging with political parties while at work

› Using publicly funded resources for political purposes, such as using a work printer to print political materials.

If in doubt, speak to your team leader or refer to the Public Service Commission’s general guidance. If you need further advice, please email our Integrity Champion in the Office of the Chief Executive.

Quiz – Tennis

The Wimbledon Championships begin today so there will be a lot of talk about tennis over the next couple of weeks. How much do you know about tennis trivia?

1. Historians credit French monks with the invention of tennis in the 12th century. What did they use to hit the ball?

a. Their hands

b. Pieces of wood

c. Wicker paddles

d. Papier-mâché racquets

2. Wimbledon is the oldest and regarded as the most prestigious tennis tournament. What year did it start?

a. 1865

b. 1877

c. 1882

d. 1899

3. Who has won the most singles titles at major (Wimbledon, US Open, French Open or Australian Open) tennis tournaments?

a. Serena Williams

b. Roger Federer

c. Margaret Court

d. Novac Djokovic

4. Anthony Wilding is New Zealand’s most successful tennis player. He is the only one to ever be ranked in the top 10 or to win a grand slam. How many times did he win Wimbledon?

a. Once

b. Twice

c. Three times

d. Four times

5. What is the only major tennis tournament played on a clay surface.

a. Australian Open

b. French Open

c. US Open

d. Wimbledon

6. What happened to Yugoslavian/US tennis player Monica Seles during a drink break in a match in Hamburg in 1993?

a. She fell and broke her arm

b. The umpire disqualified her

c. She was attacked and stabbed

d. Her boyfriend proposed to her

7. Novak Djokovic has won the Australian Open 10 times including in 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2023. What happened in 2022?

a. He lost to Rafael Nadal

b. He was out due to injury

c. He was eliminated in the first round

d. He was deported from Australia before his first match for not being vaccinated against COVID-19

8. On 22 June 1981, John McEnroe had one of the most famous on-court meltdowns of his career while competing at Wimbledon. What did he shout at the umpire?

a. “You cannot be serious!”

b. “You need glasses!”

c. “The ball boy could do your job better!”

d. “Meet me in the carpark after the match.”

9. You’re serving in a game of tennis. You have won three points and your opponent has won two. What’s the score?

a. Three - two

b. 40 - 30

c. Deuce

d. Advantage server

10. ‘Rufus’ has a very important job during Wimbledon - he keeps pigeons away from the courts. Who, or what is Rufus?

a. A cat

b. A caretaker

c. A hawk

d. An air rifle

Check your answers on page 23

tāngata – Our people

Highly respected Medical Oncologist Bridget Robinson retires

The warm collegiality and spirit of her colleagues in the Canterbury Health System over many years is what Medical Oncologist and Mackenzie Chair of Cancer Medicine Professor Bridget Robinson has front of mind as she retires.

“Because everything we do is as a team,” she says. “I also remain incredibly humbled by the patients and their whānau who we meet day to day and their courage in the situations they face.”

Bridget was a registrar at Christchurch Hospital in the late 1970s and moved to the UK in 1981, training and gaining an M.D. (Otago) research degree. She returned to New Zealand in 1986 as a Consultant Medical Oncologist. Bridget joined the University of Otago Christchurch alongside her (then) Canterbury District Health Board (DHB) role in 1998 and became the Mackenzie Chair in 2010.

Following her retirement Bridget will continue to teach Oncology part-time at the University of Otago Christchurch and support ongoing research.

Chief of Haematology, Oncology and Palliative Care

David Gibbs says he has had the privilege of both training under Bridget’s supervision and working with her as a colleague.

“As trainees, we were in awe of Bridget’s knowledge, work ethic and calm approachability. As a colleague, I had no reason to change these views! As I have gotten to know her a little better over the years, I have seen that this kindness, hard work and ability has been part of every aspect of her life. We will miss her professionally and personally and are glad that she is maintaining some contact with the wider service through her university teaching and research”.

Former Canterbury DHB Board member Andy Dickerson says he has been under the care of Bridget for the past five years.

“My neuroendocrine cancer is not curable, but it is treatable. For five years Bridget has stood beside me and supported me on every step of this cancer journey. She has always been available to answer my questions, has advocated for me and hasn’t

hesitated to consult with colleagues in Auckland and Melbourne, and doctors in other medical specialities, regarding my treatment plan.”

“I am one of thousands of cancer patients in the South Island who have benefited from Bridget’s expertise and compassion over decades of service in our public health sector. Bridget is not just an outstanding doctor, she is also an outstanding person. I am not sure how you thank someone who has had such a profound impact on your life, but I intend to honour her by continuing to fight this disease and live the best life I can in the time that I have left,” he says.

In 2022 the New Zealand Society for Oncology (NZSO) named an annual award in honour of Bridget. The award, which recognises exceptional career achievement in translational cancer research, was renamed ‘The Bridget Robinson Award’ in recognition of her outstanding contribution to both clinical cancer care and cancer research.

At the time, the society described Bridget as an exceptional role model, clinician, researcher, teacher and mentor who has helped shape the careers of many cancer clinicians and scientists throughout New Zealand. She has worked tirelessly to forge links ‘from bench to bedside’ and has been a passionate supporter of public outreach and charitable initiatives to facilitate cancer research. As well as chairing the Canterbury Tissue Bank Board, Bridget is also Director of the He Taonga Tapu Cancer Society Tissue Bank.

Bridget Robinson

Volunteer recognised with award

Sandra Palmer’s selfless dedication to others after suffering a personal tragedy has been recognised with an award from Volunteering Canterbury (see this week's cover image).

Sandra is a Wayfinder and Paediatrics Volunteer at Christchurch Hospital and in her spare time knits teddy bears that are gifted to tamariki and their whānau who spend time in the hospital. She began volunteering after her daughter Naomi died in 2019.

“The Wayfinders had been so helpful when I had to take Naomi to hospital appointments, getting wheelchairs and looking after her while I found a car park etc. I was very thankful, and after Naomi passed away I decided that I wanted to be a Wayfinder so that I could help others too,” Sandra says.

Last year she also began volunteering in the children's Activity Room in Ward A7 where she ensures all the toys and games given out to the children are sanitised.

“An email came through asking for people to knit teddies which are given to the children in hospital by the chaplains. I started knitting them and really enjoy knowing that they are going to be a comfort to children when they are admitted to hospital.”

Last week Sandra received a Volunteer Recognition Award from Volunteering Canterbury. The awards recognise outstanding efforts and achievements by volunteers of all ages and in all sectors.

An afternoon of celebration took place honouring 27 individuals and 11 groups with awards. Volunteers Team Leader Maria Flores says she would like to thank Sandra for all the energy and passion she puts into the Wayfinding programme.

“She is an extraordinary person with a big heart for others. I’m honoured to have her on my team and I’ll be forever thankful for the time she has given us.”

Hospital Play Specialist Service Team Leader Melinda White says Sandra has been an amazing support to the team.

“Her help has allowed us to better support children, as she has provided us with extra time that would otherwise be spent cleaning or preparing experiences for children. We consider her part of our team and are very grateful for her help.”

One of the teddy bears knitted by Christchurch Hospital Volunteer Sandra Palmer

Simulation technicians celebrated

Te Whatu Ora Waitaha

Canterbury celebrated Simulation Technicians Day on June 28.

Our Clinical Skills Laboratory and Medical Engineering team, together with Te Pūkenga Ara, have seven simulation technicians who work collaboratively supporting clinical and student education in the Manawa Simulation Centre.

Simulation technicians work closely with clinical staff and the education faculty to ensure the smooth operation of educational activities, says Nurse Coordinator Cathy King. They troubleshoot and help to develop different scenarios that require clinical and critical thinking skills by health professionals and those in training, to solve problems.

“This is the first time that simulation technicians have had their own day and a surprise morning tea was held to celebrate and thank them for the amazing work they do for our staff and students alike.”

Simulation technicians are essential members of every simulation team. They specialise in the technologies and methods used in the planning, preparation, and execution of simulationbased healthcare training and education events. Their specific duties and responsibilities include managing room set-up and clean-up for clinical simulations and debriefings and ensuring room props, equipment, and other resources are prepared. They also make any required resources for clinical training scenarios, such as moulage (imitation/artificial) wounds, and they print 3D simulation equipment. The latter includes intraosseous trainers, which are used for practicing the administration of fluids directly into the bone, and lumbar puncture and birthing pelvic models.

From left, Simulation Technicians Ritchie Shaw (Te Pukenga Ara), and Dionne Rogers and Dylan Hill (Waitaha Canterbury)

Absent: Simulation Technicians Shane Luzak (Te Pukenga Ara) and Alysha Chua (Waitaha Canterbury) and Electronics Technicians, Medical Physics and Bioengineering, Stefan James and Rob Willan (Waitaha Canterbury)

One minute with… Angel Chambers-Dumaguin, Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Older Person

(fixed term) and Registered Nurse (RN) Orthopaedic Rehabilitation Ward, Burwood Hospital

What does your job involve?

As a CNS, I am privileged to have an opportunity to influence nurses to set a high standard of nursing care in a culturally safe practice by providing clinical expertise and imparting specialty knowledge to the multidisciplinary team. This involves care coordination; providing clinical guidance to my nursing and Allied Health colleagues; preceptorship/coaching of new nurses; and collaborating with management for continuing development of specific nursing skills. I have recently taken mentorship of a Gerontology Accreditation Programme (GAP) candidate working here at Burwood. I am one of the CPR instructors at Burwood Hospital, working closely with a Nurse Educator. I also contribute to hand hygiene auditing by being one of the Gold Hand Hygiene Auditors. Being an RN in the Orthopaedic ward gives me an opportunity to provide specialised nursing care, particularly to elderly patients with orthopaedic injuries requiring rehabilitation. As one of the clinical liaison nurses on the ward I work closely with the Dedicated Education Unit Coordinator and the Academic Liaison Nurse for Te Pūkenga Ara. Mentoring new nurses has always been my passion and I celebrate when I see them progress from being a junior nurse to a senior nurse.

What pathway got you to this job?

I completed the Gerontology Accreditation Programme (GAP). This enabled me to gain a better understanding of the growing need to incorporate gerontological nursing care and skills in an aging population. I have also completed my Postgraduate Diploma in Health Science endorsed in Nursing which further developed my critical thinking skills to step up into a leadership role.

What advice would you give someone keen to enter your field?

Have an unwavering commitment to patient care, be willing to learn new skills and impart that to others – and work in a multidisciplinary team. Further your nursing education and be passionate in all you do.

Health

Who inspires you and why?

I have worked with many senior nurses who encouraged me to step up to be where I am right now. I am grateful for their advice and mentorship. I have a very supportive husband and children who cheer me up and encouraged me to complete my post graduate studies, despite the challenges. I have a strong relationship with God who inspires and motivates me daily to be a better person.

What do Waitaha Canterbury’s values (Care and respect for others, Integrity in all we do and Responsibility for outcomes) mean to you in your role?

Treating others how you want to be treated is my ‘golden rule’ in nursing care. I value respect and integrity by espousing diversity, equity, and inclusion at the workplace. Being able to connect with others enables me to understand people’s differences.

If you could be anywhere in the world right now where would you be?

On a tropical island relaxing on a white sand beach. Who would you want to play you if there was a movie made about your life?

Phoebe Cates or Annette Bening.

What are some of the ways you and your whānau show your aroha/love for our planet?’

Cleanliness is next to godliness. So, I clean as I go.

What are your hobbies/interests outside of work?

I like gardening (I have an edible garden) and cooking my produce. I enjoy tramping and travelling with my family. I love to connect with friends and I help my husband with church planting.

If you would like to take part in this column or would like to nominate someone please contact Naomi.Gilling@cdhb.health.nz.

Akoranga reo Māori – lesson #21

Ngā whetū

o

Matariki – The stars of Matariki

Ko te reo rāhiri tēnei e karanga atu ki a koutou kia hoki mai, ako tonu ai mō tēnei kaupapa tino whakahirahira ki a tātou katoa, ki a Ngāti Aotearoa.

This is the language of welcome, calling out to you to return and continue learning about this significant topic to us all, to the tribe of New Zealand.

Last week we looked at Pōhutukawa from the Matariki cluster, as well as Te Waka o Rangi and Te Kupenga a Taramainuku. This week we will again continue the kaupapa (subject) of Matariki, but this week we will look at the remaining of the stars in the cluster.

He Kupu - Word

Waitī

Waitī is associated with all fresh water such as our awa (rivers) and our roto (lakes). She is also associated with the kai (food) within these fresh water sources, such as tuna (eels), ika (fish) and plants. Freshwater kai such as tuna is included as a representation of Waitī within the umu kohukohu whetū (steaming earth ovens of the stars).

Whakataukī: Ka kitea a Matariki, ka rere te korokoro – When Matariki is seen, the lamprey migrates.

Ururangi

Waitā

Ururangi is related to the winds and allows us to understand what the winds will be like in the year to come.

Waitā is the star which is connected to the salt water of our moana (oceans) and the kai that we gather from these waters. Saltwater kai such as ika will be included as a representation of Waitā within the umu kohukohu whetū.

Hiwa-i-te-rangi

Waipuna-ā-rangi

Hiwa -i-te-rangi, or Hiwa, is the youngest star and represents future aspirations. We send our wishes, goals and aspirations for the coming year to Hiwa to be granted.

Waipuna-ā-rangi, whose name translates to pools of water in the skies, is unsurprisingly associated with the rains.

Whakataukī: Matariki tāpuapua – The pools of Matariki.

He Kupu - Word

Matariki

Matariki herself is the mother of the other stars in the cluster. Rehua is the father but is not considered to be a part of the actual cluster. She represents well-being and can be an omen of peace and good fortune.

Tupuārangi

This star is associated with the kai that comes from above your head. This includes birds, berries and fruit. Traditionally a kererū would be the food that represented Tupuārangi in the umu kohukohu whetū but these days kererū are protected and we are more likely to see heihei, or chicken used instead.

Tupuānuku

This star is connected to food that grows from the ground. Tupuānuku is also represented in the umu kohukohu whetū, often in the form of kūmara.

Whakataukī: Matariki ahunga nui – The great mounds of Matariki – This saying incorporates the concepts of hospitality, togetherness and the sharing of food by referring to the time of the year when kai such as kūmara are stored in large piles to share.

He whakapātaritari – A challenge

The challenge this week is to share some of the knowledge that you have gained about Matariki with at least one other person in your life. Knowledge is useless, if not shared.

Ngā mihi maioha atu i ahau, ki a koutou. Appreciative thanks from me to you

If you have any questions or feedback, please make contact via the email below.

Hauora.Maori@cdhb.health.nz

International winter warmer recipes

Banana and chocolate chip muffins

Ingredients:

› 3 cups self-raising flour

› ½ cup caster sugar

› 125g butter, chopped into small cubes

› ½ cup milk

› 2 eggs lightly beaten

› 2 ripe bananas mashed

› 1-2 cups chocolate chips

Method

Pre heat the oven to 210°C (200° fanbake). Grease a muffin tin.

Sift the flour and sugar into a large bowl. Rub in the butter with your fingertips to create a coarse breadcrumb-like mixture.

Combine the milk and eggs in a jug and add to the flour mixture. Add the mashed banana and mix with a fork until just combines. Don’t over-mix, it should be a bit lumpy. Add the chocolate chips. Spoon the mixture into the muffin tin and bake for about 20 minutes or until cooked. Makes about 12 large muffins.

These are best eaten right away or kept in an airtight container for a day or two. Warm a little in the microwave before eating – yum!

This recipe is a great base. You can replace the banana and chocolate chips with ½ - 1 cup of stewed apples and cinnamon. You could also use raspberries and white chocolate chips.

Eliminate the sugar, add ½ a teaspoon of salt and create savoury muffins – grated cheese and chive, feta and spring onion, cheese and ham.

Ward B1, Burwood Hospital

Thank you to everyone – the medical team, nurses, occupational therapist, physio, dietitian, food services, cleaning team and hospital aides – for their kindness and patience while taking care of [patient name]. What a wonderful team you have here. [Patient name] is heading home with an improved quality of life and his time at Burwood’s B1 has contributed markedly to this. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to enjoy some family time together. We’re looking forward to it. All the best.

Ann, Ward 14, Christchurch Hospital

I am extremely appreciative of Ann on reception in Ward 14 for her expertise in emailing a letter that I urgently needed to get sent through to ACC. She has such a lovely demeanour. With everything she has on her plate she takes it in her stride and puts a smile on peoples’ faces. I am very grateful.

Kummudhamallar (Kumeei), Catering Assistant, Christchurch Hospital

This beautiful caring ray of sunshine, Kumeei, has quite honestly made my 10 days in Ward 14. So very positive and her attitude made me want to better myself and concentrate on my wellbeing. She never did this intentionally, it’s just how her radiance resonated with me. Her attention to detail deserves recognition for making sure I stayed well hydrated and ate the food the dietitian had formatted for me. She really is ‘salt of the earth’ and I am blessed to have been able to regain strength and confidence.

Emergency Department (ED) and Acute Care Unit, Christchurch Hospital

I want to say thank you for the lovely care I had during my unexpected stay. My care was wonderful.

Ward B1, Burwood Hospital

To the amazing team in Ward B1, thank you so much for all the care, love and kind words. You all do such an amazing job, you are the ‘A’ team. Thank you all. You have helped so much on this journey, you have helped Mum so much, to put on weight and with her walking – just all your love and care has got her to where she is now – coming home! I cannot thank you all enough for all you have done, it is thanks to you all that I get to bring my beautiful mum home. Her partner and I appreciate it so much. Words are not enough.

Day Surgery, Christchurch Hospital

Every member of staff who I came into contact with was absolutely fantastic. They were friendly, happy, helpful calm and when I was nervous they made jokes, and it just made the whole thing so much easier.

Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Christchurch Hospital

The care my father received in ICU was exceptional compassionate care for the whole family and things were well explained. This felt extremely reassuring.

ED, Surgical Ward, Surgical Assessment and Review Area and Ward A5, Christchurch Hospital

All the staff were so lovely during my two-night stay. They showed care, listened, communicated everything well, and kept us up to date. I was put through ED as quickly as they could as I was not in a good way and was so, so, thankful for that. Thank you so much!

Pool staff, Christchurch Hospital

Our thanks and acknowledgement for your wide range of skills and knowledge supporting the different specialties in Christchurch Hospital. We salute you for your bravery heading to shift in any specialty in the hospital and doing amazing nursing care – it goes to show the skills and multispecialty experience you guys possess. You are all amazing nurses and hospital aides.

Ward 11, Christchurch Hospital

I have had experience over the past week as a health professional of my father being admitted to hospital. I was very impressed with the speedy way he had all his testing done. I was most impressed with how things were efficiently undertaken.

Ward 18, Christchurch Hospital

I cannot speak highly enough of the staff who cared for me during my post-op stay. Their professionalism was outstanding. They were kind and calm at all times, even when dealing with the challenges of difficult or unpleasant patients on the ward. Thank you all so very much.

Ward 25, Christchurch Hospital

My mother was blessed with wonderful care. Dr Mike Maze and his team were outstanding. Welcoming of us as a family and with our questions and concerns. The care and compassion, professionalism, patience, attentiveness and human kindness was a comfort and reassurance for Mum and us. Thank you all, especially Mike. God bless you.

Orthopaedic Acute Care and Ward A4, Christchurch Hospital

I wish to thank you for the outstanding care I received when I fractured my ankle and required surgery. To the nurses Sarah, Peter, Liz and Jan as well as the registrars, I was so impressed with your empathy, knowledge and care. To all the staff in Ward A4, especially nurses Dave and Lynnie, what legends! Excellent care and treatment by all involved. Also thank you to Yin who did my surgery –I am very grateful indeed.

Ward B3 and Surgical Assessment and Review Area (SARA),

I would like to extend my warmest thanks and gratitude to the team who took care of me. I presented with a sensitive issue at a vulnerable time and every staff member cared for me with kindness, grace and the utmost professionalism. This made a huge difference to my experience. Again, thank you, you all make such a positive difference in your patients. Ngā mihi nui ki a koutou katoa.

Ward A4, Christchurch Hospital

Fantastic care. Thank you.

ED, Christchurch Hospital

I was attended to by Alexi, Caitlin, Jordan and Nikita. These people are a credit to the hospital and have all done Te Whatu Ora proud. They are all very friendly, professional and people-oriented and have an obvious genuine caring attitude for other people. Nikita performed a surgical procedure and she was brilliant at her work and with her interpersonal skills. Thank you all.

Ward A4, Christchurch Hospital

A most enjoyable stay. Thank you to all.

Skye, Day Stay, Christchurch Women’s Hospital

Excellent, kind, gentle, caring nurse Skye. Please commend her for her lovely manner. She is the best.

ED and X-Ray, Christchurch Hospital

I could not fault any of the services where my husband has been. Thank you all so much.

Cardiology Day Unit and Coronary Care Unit, Christchurch Hospital

The care I received from all of the staff involved was exemplary. Their caring attitude and attention to detail made a difficult procedure easy. As a retired Operating Theatre nurse and supervisor, I was extremely impressed with the skill and professionalism of all of the staff and particularly Dr Smyth. Please pass on my thanks to all involved.

Pharmacy, Christchurch Hospital

I regularly collect my prescriptions from the hospital pharmacy for a medication I can't get from my normal pharmacy. The team there are always so friendly with big smiles and make me feel welcome. They always answer any questions I have about my meds and have put me at ease many times. Thank you to the friendly and amazing team there!

Coronary Care Unit and Catheter Laboratory, Christchurch Hospital

The staff throughout my visit were friendly, efficient and very helpful. I have undergone quite a few operations, but this was the shortest and most lifegiving surgical intervention I have had. Please pass on my absolute thanks for their devotion to their patients. I was even wheeled back to my room by Dr Daly. Also, thanks to Dr Susan O'Malley for her helpful manner and detection of my condition through the perfusion scan. Thank you for your services as they are excellent.

Wards 10 and 11, Christchurch Hospital

I got such loving care and attention. My thanks to surgeons Ben and Maria, and their team and to surgeon Matt and his lovely team for the other. We are very fortunate to have such a lovely place filled with such lovely people. My thanks and gratitude to it and them all.

ED and Children’s ED, Christchurch Hospital

We visited the ED with our son who required stitches. All the staff we encountered were fantastic –kind, friendly, and professional. Special thanks to Drs Leanne and Setra, and Nurses Vlad and Michelle. Made a stressful evening much more pleasant and we were so impressed. Can't speak highly enough of the staff.

Acute Care, Christchurch Hospital

I recently accompanied my Mum to Acute Care one evening. She is very nervous in hospitals and was very frightened to find herself there. Nurse Aimee, Dr Josh and Orthopaedic Registrar Jordan were very kind and made her feel very safe and reassured in their care. Thank you all, it is great to see how well the team work together in Acute Care.

Spotlight on: Whakakotahi | Unify Programme

To help achieve Pae Ora (healthy futures) for all New Zealanders Te Whatu Ora Waitaha Canterbury and Te Tai o Poutini West Coast have a dedicated team focused on bringing to life our commitment to Te Tiriti and growing the number and capability of our Māori workforce and leaders while influencing broader workforce diversity and equity.

“Mana Taurite is a team of specialists that have developed key initiatives aligned to Te Pae Tata Interim NZ Health Plan and which also support our Pulse Survey action addressing discrimination and building cultural safety”, says Head of Equity Diversity and Inclusion Rebecca McCormick (Kāi Tahu, Ngāti Raukawa, Ngāti Mūtunga, Moriori).

“We’re dedicated to growing and empowering a diverse workforce, creating positive change, shifting cultural norms, and celebrating diversity.”

One initiative is the Whakakotahi | Unify Programme, a series of workshops as part of a mana-enhancing and cultural engagement programme.

Programme Educator Lloyd Carpenter (Ngāti Apa Ki Te Rā Tō, Te Ātiawa o Te Waka-a-Māui, Ngāti Toarangatira o Whakatū) answered the wero (challenge) to create a cultural engagement programme by drawing on years of experience lecturing in Māori Studies at Lincoln University, teaching at Aranui High School, and a lifetime’s advice from kaumātua, such as his Aunt, Hine Tui Waitai Wanhalla o Ngāi Te Ruahikihiki ki Taumutu.

Te Ao Marama covers applying the Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi, Tikanga, Pronunciation of Te Reo Māori and conversational Te Reo Māori, and much more.

“This improves our equity awareness, responsiveness, and outcomes for both kaimahi and the communities that we serve,” says Lloyd. One of the benefits of the flexible workshop model is how easy they are to implement.

“We offer a series of short workshops designed as wānanga motuhake (standalone) workshops, assuming no prior learning. Delivering engaging, mana-enhancing workshops for all staff in their workplace is useful, timely, and cost-effective. We’ve been told they’re energising and inspiring,” he says.

The Kahukura – Rainbow Diversity Workshop was developed by Workforce Development Partner Akira Le Fevre whose portfolio includes the rainbow and minority communities and those living with a disability.

“We created Kahukura in consultation with rainbow communities and rainbow kaimahi. The goal is to help kaimahi understand and engage with the rainbow and put into practice our values of care and respect. We empower them to work inclusively,

Our big-hearted facilitators Whakakotahi | Unify Programme Educator Lloyd Carpenter (above) and Workforce Development Partner Akira Le Fevre (below), who are changing minds and attitudes to make this a safer workplace for our kaimahi – which flows on to the community we serve

to listen, and learn from other workshop attendees’ lived experience,” he says.

The workshops cover a range of topics including diverse definitions, terminology, language and labels, and identities, as well as the importance of pronouns and chosen names, the difference between gender and sex, New Zealand rainbow history, and the barriers rainbow communities face.

“We aim to remove the fear of getting things wrong or offending by being positively curious, teaching kaimahi how to be better allies,” says Akira.

“Feedback about the programme has been amazing. People appreciate the safe space and love that we openly talk about this within our organisation.”

The Whakakotahi programme has had an outstanding first year with over 4500 attendees throughout Waitaha Canterbury and Te Tai o Poutini West Coast.

To learn more about this mana-enhancing and cultural engagement programme you can check out the website or contact the team

Initiatives to support rainbow kaimahi

During Christchurch Pride Week in March, Te Whatu Ora Waitaha Canterbury’s Mana Taurite Equity, Diversity and Inclusion team launched the first ‘Rainbow Kaimahi Connect’.

This is an employee-led network for Te Whatu Ora rainbow kaimahi and their allies to get together and meet rainbow kaimahi to help nurture, support and empower them.

The initiative is managed by Workforce Development Partner Akira Le Fevre who says employee-led networks help foster a culture of diversity and inclusion, acceptance and mutual respect.

“This can be especially important for those communities who often feel isolated and alone.

“We know that when any person can be their authentic self at work and don’t have to spend time worrying about hiding who they are, they can give their best at work. As a result, we can attract and retain the best talent which in turn has a positive effect on the diverse communities we serve.”

Since its implementation there have been two Rainbow Kaimahi Connect meetings, with kaimahi attending both in person and online from various campuses.

“The meetings have been a great opportunity to connect, share ideas and support each other with any issues which may be relative to the community and their mahi.”

This is the first time a group like this has existed, Akira says.

“We’re excited to be able to extend the invitation out to other Te Whatu Ora rainbow kaimahi and look forward to seeing the group grow.”

As part of his Workforce Development Role at Te Whatu Ora Waitaha and Te Tai o Poutini, Akira also facilitates a weekly Rainbow Diversity Workshop which is offered to all Te Whatu Ora kaimahi.

The workshop has had a positive uptake with interest growing both regionally and nationally, he says.

Akira also holds a ‘Rainbow Lived Experience Advisory Role’ where he can offer individuals, teams and departments advice, support and guidance around any rainbow issues within the workplace, either face-to-face, by phone, email, or virtually.

There is information about the Rainbow Diversity Workshop here or if you are interested in in any of these initiatives you may contact Akira by email akira.lefevre@cdhb.health.nz

Colouring competition celebrates ‘calming’ hobby

A much-loved customer of the Christchurch Hospital Gift Shop prompted the store to stock adult colouring books and now the volunteers have found a way to celebrate this hobby.

“Three years ago, we had a customer who would come in each week to purchase magazines and she would buy children’s colouring books, says Administrator, Volunteers, Ann Hill.

“One day she told me that they were for her to pass time during dialysis sessions. So I started a search to find adult colouring books and decent quality pencils that adults would appreciate. Since then the sales for them have grown and grown and we now have a great selection and the lady who started this adventure with colouring-in is still a regular customer.”

Colouring-in and puzzle books are a lovely calming way to spend time stuck in hospital, Ann says.

“The Volunteers Committee thought it would be wonderful to celebrate this with a colouring competition open to all the hospital community that they support. So it’s open to staff, patients, volunteers and visitors alike.”

If you would like to enter, colour anything you like, put your name, age, and contact details on the back and deliver it to the hospital gift shop. The competition runs through to 17 July.

Some great prizes have been donated by the gift shop’s suppliers, including a Wrendale cake tin set from Image Gallery, which Ann says is currently “very coveted” among the volunteers. There are also prizes of gift bags full of Staedtler items, soft toys from Antics, Jellycats from ISAlbi and a Living Light gift box from the Volunteers Committee.

Colouring books are said to increase your focus and relaxation and in recent years have become increasingly popular, including with patients and staff.

Ann says the hospital gift shop chose to stock Staedtler art supplies because not only are they great quality for their price point, but also because

the international company has its own charitable trust which supports the very poorest countries around the world.

The shop’s colouring-in books come from a number of different suppliers and they sell a lot of ‘Art Packs’ from their website www. christchurchhospitalgiftshop.co.nz You are invited to browse the website for a selection of colour books and art supplies, (the gift shop does free delivery within the Christchurch campus), or visit the gift shop in person.

From left, Wayfinding Volunteer Rachel, and Christchurch Hospital Gift Shop Volunteers Lauren and Debbie

Christchurch Hospital Gift Shop Volunteer Sheila with some of the colouring supplies sold there

Pānui – Notices

Something For You

Something for You is the Te Whatu Ora - Waitaha Canterbury employee benefits programme. The deals offered are from the New Zealand business community to say thank you for all that you do Please see below offers for you.

Torpedo7 - Northlink, Tower Junction and Online at www.torpedo7.co.nz

Through to the 11 July, Torpedo7 are offering Te Whatu Ora staff plus friends and family up to 50 percent off. This deal can be used instore and online. Find more details including promotion codes here.

Warehouse Stationary – Eastgate, Papanui, South City and online at www.warehousestationery.co.nz

Offering Te Whatu Ora staff plus friends and family 30 percent off filing and storage, paper and notebooks. Also 20 percent off office stationery and labels, envelopes, packing, whiteboards and corkboards, office desks, office chairs and office furniture, with 2.5 percent of total sales to go to the Christchurch City Mission. This deal can be used instore and online from 3 – 16 July. Find more details including promotion codes here

Noel leeming - Moorhouse, Riccarton, Northlink, Hornby, Northwood and online at www.noelleeming. co.nz

Offering Te Whatu Ora staff plus friends and family cost + 5-10 percent on all products storewide with 2.5 percent of total sales going to the Christchurch City Mission. This deal can be used instore and online from 3 -16 July. Find more details including promotion codes here.

Get 20 percent off your first order of plant-based dinners delivered to your door, use the promo code when checking out online at www.greendinnertable. co.nz using the discount code found here.

Green Dinner Table

CHIC newsletter

The latest issue of the Community Health Information Centre (CHIC) newsletter is out now. The monthly newsletter is produced by CHIC at Community and Public Health (C&PH). The newsletter highlights new and revised free resources available from your local CHIC office.

You can read it on the C&PH website here

QUIZ ANSWERS – Tennis

1. a. Their hands – racquets weren’t used until the 16th century

2. b. 1877

3. c. Margaret Court. Court won 24 majors during her career. Williams and Djokovic are both on 23 and Federer won 20.

4. d. Four times. Wilding won the Australian Open Twice (in 1906 and 1909) and Wimbledon in 1910, 1911, 1912 and 1913. He died in 1915, killed in action in France during WWI.

5. b. The French Open

6. c. She was attacked and stabbed (by a crazed fan of Steffi Graf)

7. d. He was deported from Australia before his first match for not being vaccinated against COVID-19

8. a. “You cannot be serious!”

9. b. 40 – 30

10. c. A hawk