Karen POUTASI Obituary

In a troubled world where those working for the public good can be seen as quaint and misguided, it is not just your colleagues who will miss your commitment and no nonsense leadership style. You will be missed by the public as a whole, many of whom are oblivious to the important part you have played in their wellbeing.

I was lucky to work with Karen briefly at the Ministry of Health where I reported directly to her. Karen was a principled and inspiring leader whose aim always was to foster innovation and improved health and disability access to the NZ population. Her supportive and no nonsense approach made her a great role model. Her public service record speaks volumes as to her commitment. Karen you will be sorely missed by all those people who knew you

During my tenure as Chief Nurse at the Ministry of Health, Dame Karen served as Director-General of Health. While undertaking a Harkness Fellowship in Health Care Policy, I arrived in New York City on 10 September 2001, just prior to the World Trade Center attacks. Stranded in the city for a week and facing significant stress, I received exceptional personal and professional support from Karen, both as a leader and as my employer. I have valued my ongoing connection with Dame Karen over the past 25 years and greatly appreciated her guidance and encouragement. Thank you, Karen, for your support and inspiration. Your passing will be deeply felt my many. Thank you for your commitment to ensuring the safety of our public health services for both staff and service users.
Frances Hughes RN on behalf of all the nurses that you worked with and supported