Starship Children’s Hospital doctors doubt Health NZ’s handling of bullying claims despite official compliance.

Senior doctors at Starship Children’s Hospital remain skeptical of Health New Zealand’s response to bullying and harassment allegations in the Te Puaruruhau unit, despite HNZ claiming to have met WorkSafe’s October 22 deadline by implementing new safety systems and training. WorkSafe closed its improvement notice, citing compliance, but plans a follow-up review in March 2026. The Association of Salaried Medical Specialists criticized HNZ for excluding unions from the process, calling it irregular. A leadership vacuum persisted for months, with several senior staff leaving, and patient care reportedly suffered. A new clinical director has been appointed, but concerns remain over transparency and long-term change.