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Published: 14 June, 2021

Throughout 2020, she also led the early set-up phase as Head of Secretariat for the Initial Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission (Initial Commission). “It’s with great pleasure I announce the appointment of Karen Orsborn as Chief Executive of the Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission.

Published: 28 October, 2021

The Commission’s report, titled: Access and Choice Programme: Report on the first two years / Te Hōtaka mō Ngā Whai Wāhitanga me Ngā Kōwhiringa: He purongo mo ngā rua tau tuatahi [PDF, 1.9 MB ]  is the first report of the Commission, which opened its doors in February 2021.

Published: 8 December, 2021

Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission report highlights need to listen to and work alongside people with highest need and those disproportionately experiencing inequity Te Rau Tira Wellbeing Outcomes Report 2021 [PDF, 9 MB]  found that most communities in Aotearoa New Zealand tend to experience

Published: 11 June, 2025

We want to see outcomes achieved when we look back at the 10-year mark of He Ara Oranga in 2028. What we have developed shows how we can get there.  However, it must now be acted on.”

Published: February 2024

The online form is open until 30 November 2023.  

Published: 13 December, 2023

   Building on the voices of thousands of people who contributed to the landmark Mental Health and Addictions Inquiry, and people we’ve heard from since being established in early 2021, these are our priorities for the new minister: provide more mental health services specifically designed

Published: 14 September, 2026

    Dr Barbara Disley was appointed Chair of Te Hiringa Mahara – Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission in June 2026. She has an extensive background as a leader of national and international mental health organisations.

Published: June 2026

Psychological distress is rising across Aotearoa, but the mental health system’s response is not keeping pace. While progress has been made, it has not gone far enough, especially for young people and Māori. This roadmap sets out where faster, more focused action is needed to build a system that better meets people’s needs.

Published: January 2026

During 2020, Karen led the establishment of Te Hiringa Mahara as Head of Secretariat for the Initial Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission. Karen has held a variety of health management and leadership roles that focus on improving outcomes for people through working with people and communities.

Published: 30 June, 2022

Commercial determinants Private sector (companies that aren’t controlled by the state) activities that can affect people’s health [and wellbeing] positively or negatively (World Health Organisation, 2021).