Health NZ announced 1800 job cuts as healthcare workers strike for safer hospital conditions amid growing concerns over long waits for specialist appointments and deteriorating public health services.

An inquiry revealed that Health NZ's data sharing agreements lacked robust audit provisions and safeguards, leaving sensitive health data exposed and vulnerable to misuse. The report highlighted that contracts with external providers failed to include necessary compliance checks, reflecting a concerning gap in data security protocols.

The Public Service Association has filed legal proceedings against Health NZ, claiming that its proposed job cuts, including significant reductions in IT/digital roles and public health positions, breach employment law and risk patient care. The union argues these cuts, driven by government savings demands, disregard worker safety and adequate consultation.

A PSA survey and public outcry have highlighted that Health NZ's recent plan to cut approximately 300 roles, alongside the phased withdrawal of police support for mental health callouts, is placing both workers and patients at increased risk. Mental health workers warn that these cuts, combined with inadequate planning and training, could lead to serious harm and compromised safety in healthcare settings.

Health NZ dismissed its board chair, Rob Campbell, after he posted a politically charged critique of the National Party’s Three Waters policy. Although Campbell apologized following discussions with political leaders, including opposition leader Christopher Luxon and Minister Verrall, his firing has been interpreted by some as an overreaction and a suppression of political dissent.