Lifewise Chief Executive, Haehaetu Barrett, Makes Top 10 for New Zealander of the Year

Her journey began as a midnight worker at a hospital, where she witnessed the healthcare challenges faced by vulnerable individuals, inspiring her passion for making a difference. With a background in social work, she quickly rose to become a general manager by the age of 29.

Haehaetu's dedication to addressing social inequalities, particularly for Māori, led her to pursue a Business Management degree. Her advocacy for families caught the Ministry of Health's attention, propelling her into a leadership role for Māori Mental Health. Her upbringing in a Māori community in Rotorua, with a strong emphasis on fairness and support, shaped her passion for ensuring equity across communities.

Haehaetu's goal is to transform Lifewise into an informed, expert-led entity that partners with communities rather than merely providing services. Her commitment lies in holding government and local agencies accountable and not just applying for contracts but delivering tailored services.

Being a semi-finalist for New Zealander of The Year is a testament to her dedication, yet she remains humble, focusing on the impact she and her teams have had on people's lives. She values the pride of her parents, her children, grandchildren, and friends but, most importantly, the privilege of working with like-minded individuals who share her passion for the cause.

You can learn more about Haehaetu here: https://www.lifewise.org.nz/new-zealander-of-the-year/