
Dean Cowles
Kaitohutohu Nēhi ā-Motu - Ngā Take Māori, National Nursing Advisor - Māori Affairs, Rōpu Whakahaere Nēhi | Nursing Directorate, Southern Cross Healthcare
Bio:
Ko Pūtauaki te maunga
Ko Rangitaiki te awa
Ko Mātaatua te waka
Ko Ngāti Awa te iwi
Ko Te Patuwai te hapu
Ko Tamatea kitehuatahi te marae
Ko Dean Cowles toku ingoa
Ko taku tūranga mahi ki Southern Cross Healthcare
Ko te Māori Nurse Advisor
Dean Cowles has a clinical background in education, theatre, PACU, and public health across both public and private sectors. He champions Hauora Māori through collaborative leadership and governance roles, including as a Board Member of the College of Nurses Aotearoa and Co-Chair of AUT’s Kawa Whakaruruhau committee. Dean’s Master’s research explored improving Māori health outcomes in private surgical settings through valuing Māori nurses. His work spans Tiriti-based practice, cultural safety, and health equity, and he leads national initiatives, research, and virtual education to support practitioners working with Māori and other marginalised communities across Aotearoa.
Nā te hono nei
I honoa ai ēnei waka
Mā te hono tonu
E rewa tahi atu ai
His topics include:
- Te Tiriti o Waitangi in Healthcare
- Inequities in Māori Health: An analysis
- Cultural awareness and safety