Wano to lead mental health revamp body

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The chair of the initial Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission says he has an open mind as to whether a separate Māori commission is needed.

Hayden Wano from Te Ātiawa, Taranaki and Ngāti Awa brings over 40 years' health sector experience in mental health, community and medical services to the role.

Other members include 2018's young Māori business leader of the year Kendall Flutey, former Green MP Kevin Hague, mental health advocate Kelly Pope and clinical psychologist Julie Wharewera-Mika.

Mr Wano says rather than build a new system, the commission will look to enhance what's there and try to get the system, to work more cohesively that it is now.

That will include engaging effectively with Māori communities at all levels.

"I don’t think we are going to make great headway unless we have effective engagement. What evolves in the future, I think that is something we should keep an open mind to," Mr Wano says.

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