New Zealand: advancing equity, leadership and system transformation in nurse practitioner practice

Nurse practitioners (Mātanga Tapuhi) in Aotearoa (New Zealand) are transforming healthcare through culturally responsive, equity-focused and evidence-based practice. As their numbers grow and their roles expand across primary and secondary care, nurse practitioners are leading innovations in service delivery, research and clinical leadership. This article explores the evolution of nurse practitioner practice in Aotearoa, highlighting advances in Māori and Pacific workforce development, systemic challenges, and the growing influence of Mātanga Tapuhi in shaping a more just and effective health system.