Oranga Tamariki chief executive Chappie Te Kani has resigned from the role, to focus on his health. 

Te Kani, who had been in the role since 2022, took medical leave in September to undergo surgery. 

At the time, Te Kani said he expected to return to work by the end of the year. 

Former justice and defence secretary Andrew Bridgman has been acting chief executive in the meantime. 

In an internal email sent to staff on Friday morning, and seen by RNZ, Te Kani said the choice was not easy, but it was the right one for him, his whānau, and for Oranga Tamariki. 

“I leave certain of one thing, that you will endure,” he told staff. 

“I have also witnessed our kaimahi turn impossibility into hope. Where others see barriers, you create breakthroughs. I am richer for seeing these successes which give me an unshakeable belief in you all.” 

Public Service Commissioner Sir Brian Roche said he supported Te Kani’s decision, and wished him and his family the best. 

“Leading Oranga Tamariki is a big job and I think Mr Te Kani for his commitment and hard work in the last three and a half year,” Sir Brian said. 

- RNZ