Whistleblower Sparks Major Investigation into Radiology Services at Health NZ

Michael Heron KC has been appointed to lead an independent investigation into Health New Zealand's radiology services following a protected disclosure and years of technology failures.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 15, 2026, 4:55 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

The Investigation: Scope and Leadership

The Health New Zealand board, chaired by Dr. Lester Levy, commissioned the inquiry following a "serious wrongdoing" report under the Protected Disclosures Act 2022.

Key Investigation Details:

Lead Investigator: Michael Heron KC, a former Solicitor-General known for leading high-profile government inquiries.

Focus Area: While the board has not specified every location, the Hawke’s Bay district is a central focus. Heron is expected to visit Hawke’s Bay Hospital later this month.

Participants: Numerous clinicians, including senior doctors and nurses, have been invited to provide testimony.