Our Board oversees our strategic direction and monitors how we deliver our objectives. The diverse members of the Board combine their experiences and expertise to guide the Chief Executive, who works with the Cystic Fibrosis New Zealand staff to achieve the charity’s vision.
Board Chair
President CFNZ
Denis became involved with CFNZ after his son was born with cystic fibrosis in 1972. Denis was instrumental in establishing the CF Research Foundation fund in the 80’s - in conjunction with Patron Bob Elliot. For many years Denis was Chair of the Board, and for the past 13 years retains his involvement as CFNZ President. In 2001 he was recognised with the Queens Service Order (QSO) for services to CFNZ and the community. His son Cameron currently lives in Melbourne.
CF Adult Representative
Kirsty is an enthusiastic young adult with CF, based in Hawkes Bay. She has recently spent 5 years living in the UK receiving treatment from world class CF Center. During this time she joined the Phase 2 Trikafta trials, and having now been on it for 5 years understands first hand the impact it has. She is looking forward to sharing her experience and workings of the UK system with CFNZ.
Outside of CF, Kirsty has a career working in high-growth tech companies. She is passionate about enabling all people with CF to have the best opportunity for success.
Board member
Chloe lives in Auckland with her husband and two boys, one of whom has CF. She is the current Chair of the Auckland/Northland Branch. With over 15 years’ experience in healthcare, Chloe has held a variety of leadership roles across primary, urgent, and secondary care. More recently, she has been working internationally to advance IPC education through the use of AI. Chloe is passionate about improving patient outcomes and supporting the people who deliver care every day, and she is excited to bring both her personal and professional experience to help better the lives of people with CF and their whānau.
Board member
Kayne is based in Palmerston North with his family, and has a young son who has CF. He is the current chair of the Central Districts Branch of CFNZ. Kayne has worked in secondary schools as a teacher but more extensively in pastoral care and people management. He is looking forward to being able to being able to benefit the CF community in supporting our people with CF, and how CFNZ and the Branches can provide the support necessary for them to thrive in a post Trikafta world.
Board member
Lena is a Chartered Accountant with 10+ years experience in public and private corporations. She is motivated by the invaluable work of the CF community in navigating changes in the CF landscape and advocating for Trikafta funding. She is excited to support the Board and the wider community in this cause, and to contribute to the next steps of improving CF healthcare.
Board member
Mike is passionate about bringing health innovation to Kiwis and first became involved with CF working as a consultant to support the funding of Trikafta. He has over a decade of experience in the health sector as a Health Economist and Consultant working across pharmaceuticals, health services and policy. Improving health and wellbeing outcomes has been central to Mike's purpose throughout his career and he is excited to work with the CFNZ community. Outside of his day job Mike is a professional Director and Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors.
Board member
Simon is a lawyer and business owner with over a decade experience in SME’s, predominantly in well-being, technology and sport. Growing up alongside a good friend with CF has inspired Simon to contribute to improving the healthcare landscape in New Zealand. Simon is firm believer that New Zealand can become a world leader in innovative healthcare delivery and is looking forward to working for the CF community.