5607 (2025). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Health

5607 (2025). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Health: What, if any, additional costs will be incurred by the Ministry of Health as a result of Dr Diana Sarfati’s early departure, broken down by component?

Hon Simeon Brown: Our Government is focused on delivering timely, quality healthcare for all New Zealanders. I am advised that a leaving morning tea was held at the Ministry for all staff at a cost of $547. This likely would have happened irrespective of when Dr Sarfati stepped down. I note that the cost of this leaving morning tea is significantly less than the $39,262.22-plus GST paid for a Chief Executive's farewell under the previous government.