Western Bay of Plenty Primary Health Organisation CEO Roger Taylor is retiring after 15 years in the role.

Roger joined the WBOP PHO in 2003, shortly after it came into existence, and he will leave on June 30 after dedicating his role to improving the health and wellness of Western Bay communities, with a special focus on high-needs groups.

He has overseen dozens of community-based initiatives as part of the WBOP PHO's responsibility for much of the region's health care that occurs outside of Tauranga Hospital.

Reflecting on his career, Roger says he has learned that 'having a positive self-regard” is an important driver of wellness, as people who valued themselves tended to be gainfully employed, in good housing, and with good physical health.

Partly for this reason, he believes that health and wellness are best approached in a holistic way, with organisations working together towards a common goal.

He therefore strongly supports the concept behind the WBOP PHO's ownership structure, which is shared between Western Bay general practices and two local iwi, Ngai Te Rangi and Ngati Ranginui.

'It's encouraged dialogue, understanding and a commonality of purpose.

'I'll be leaving content in the knowledge that the PHO is in good heart, is financially strong, and is having its views heard locally and further afield.”

WBOP PHO co-chairs Luke Bradford and Paul Stanley say Roger has been a driving force behind many of the PHO's successes, most notably as a champion for equality in health care access through his strong focus on high-needs communities.

'Among his many achievements, Roger has been instrumental in improving after-hours services and supporting health care initiatives through marae and hauora,” they say.

The co-chairs says Roger has 'proudly nurtured” the relationship between iwi and general practices during his time as CEO.

He hadsalso supported autonomy and sovereignty for general practices, allowing them to deliver accessible, high-quality health care to all sectors of the population.

'Roger leaves behind a thriving organisation,” they say. 'This a testament to his focus on continual improvement and in particular on preserving values and striving for equality.”

Roger will remain in the Bay of Plenty, where he intends to explore fresh opportunities.

The WBOP PHO will start recruiting for the vacant position soon.