Murray is, or has been, a governor of a number of local organisations, both “for profit” and “not for profit”, covering diverse sectors including health, infrastructure, agri-tech and performing arts.
Murray became a Trustee of Arohanui Hospice in 2016.

Sharon Wards brings with her a diverse background in science, health, and governance. She resides in Dannevirke and until recently she had the privilege of leading Tararua Health Group, a role she held for over 21 years. During that time she worked closely with Arohanui Hospice so appreciates the value of delivery of our services into rural communities. She serves as a District Councillor, is a keen farmer, and advocates for many health and social services within Tararua through her membership on many committees.

Bryan has extensive governance experience with agricultural and community-based organisations. He spent 45 years dairy farming in the Manawatu, is a former director of Livestock Improvement Corporation and former trustee of the Eastern and Central Community Trust. Bryan and his wife Joanne live near Feilding and place a great importance on family, relationships and community.
Bryan has a huge respect for what is achieved by volunteers and staff of Arohanui and he values and appreciates the opportunity to build on this legacy.

David Andrews has diverse executive, advisory, and governance experience within government and private sectors, with expertise in disability, immigration, energy, and tourism.
Together with his wife, he owns House of Travel The Square. David is proud to contribute to Arohanui’s enduring legacy, and has been a member of the Arohanui Hospice Board since 2020.

Julie Knighton has worked in various leadership roles for Fonterra developing a range of skills in research, manufacturing, project and operations management, and leadership coaching. Early in 2021, she moved to MyFarm Investments. As General Manager of Business at myFarm, Julie is responsible for ensuring that the MyFarm business team efficiently and effectively manges the growing portfolio of assets profitably, while maintaining investor satisfaction. Julie is excited about the opportunity to contribute her skills to the future growth and development of Arohanui Hospice.

Responding to the Board’s 2020 challenge for additional members, Bernie Hanaray recently joined the Board of Trustees.

He brings to this role a varied experience in General Management and Directorship roles over many years with International companies including overseas service in Asia, Ireland and Africa. A resident of Manakau in the Horowhenua, he is enjoying the coast climate and lifestyle with his wife. Both are kept busy involved in the local community, keeping up with family and friends. Bernie is pleased to take up this opportunity to contribute to the work and ongoing development of the Arohanui Hospice.

A partner at Freebairn & Hehir, Lawyers, John Freebairn has been a board member since 2005 and was Chairman from 2011 to 2019. He is involved in several other community and charitable groups and provides legal advice and committee support. John has been a lawyer for over 40 years, is a past President of the Rotary Club of Palmerston North and has honoured by the Rotary Club with the Paul Harris Fellowship and Sapphire pin. John lives on the outskirts of Palmerston North with his wife Vicki, and they have four adult children. John says he is pleased to be able to combine his enjoyment of the Manawatū lifestyle and people with his legal and personal skills to assist the work of Arohanui Hospice.

(Te Whakatōhea rāua ko Ngāti Porou)

Formerly a veterinarian, Dr Curtis Walker retrained in human medicine and practices as a kidney specialist and general physician in Palmerston North Hospital.
Curtis’s career has involved secondary and tertiary clinical care as well as roles across governance and public policy. He serves on the Kidney Health NZ Board and chaired the Medical Council for 5 years, as well as serving as Deputy Chair
on the Māori Doctors Association (Te ORA), and he has just completed a term on the Te Whatu Ora board.

Having spent time at Arohanui during his training, Curtis is proud to be part of a dedicated team, helping to deliver our important care to the people and whānau of our community.