Lynley Cvitanovic joined the Whakauae team on 28 October 2008 after being shoulder-tapped by Heather Gifford for her experience in community and Public Health. On 1 July 2026, Lynley moves into the next phase of her retirement. We acknowledge this milestone with deep aroha and immense gratitude, recognising the generous contribution Lynley has made to Whakauae Research, the energy and commitment she has brought to our organisation, and the enduring legacy she leaves as a Tangata Tiriti champion for Māori health research.
Lynley’s influence has been substantial and far-reaching. Across many research and evaluation projects, she has generously shared her knowledge, care, and thoughtful guidance, strengthening our mahi and supporting those around her with warmth and humility. For many years, she also brought her keen eye and considerable skill to coordinating Whakauae Annual Report and editing our occasional paper series Te Pūtake. We will greatly miss her attention to detail, her formatting skills, and the quiet excellence she has contributed to this important work.
Throughout her time with Whakauae, Lynley has embraced opportunities to learn and grow, including her committed learning of Te Reo Māori and her wholehearted participation in the cultural events offered by Whakauae. Lynley has been a steadfast and generous supporter of Ngāti Hauiti, always willing to lend a hand, whether quietly helping in the kitchen at Rātā Marae, tea towel in hand, or being present at the many events and kaupapa they shared.
Through Lynley’s vision, dedication, and steadfast support, she has helped Whakauae make a significant contribution both to the academy and to the wellbeing of our people. We marked her last day with cake in the office and lunch together, where she was presented with flowers and a taonga in recognition of all she has given. Lynley leaves with our deepest thanks and warmest appreciation. We wish her every happiness, fulfilment, and joy as she steps into this next chapter.
Lynley Cvitanovic joined the Whakauae team on 28 October 2008 after being shoulder-tapped by Heather Gifford for her experience in community and Public Health. On 1 July 2026, Lynley moves into the next phase of her retirement. We acknowledge this milestone with deep aroha and immense gratitude, recognising the generous contribution Lynley has made to Whakauae Research, the energy and commitment she has brought to our organisation, and the enduring legacy she leaves as a Tangata Tiriti champion for Māori health research.
Lynley’s influence has been substantial and far-reaching. Across many research and evaluation projects, she has generously shared her knowledge, care, and thoughtful guidance, strengthening our mahi and supporting those around her with warmth and humility. For many years, she also brought her keen eye and considerable skill to coordinating Whakauae Annual Report and editing our occasional paper series Te Pūtake. We will greatly miss her attention to detail, her formatting skills, and the quiet excellence she has contributed to this important work.
Throughout her time with Whakauae, Lynley has embraced opportunities to learn and grow, including her committed learning of Te Reo Māori and her wholehearted participation in the cultural events offered by Whakauae. Lynley has been a steadfast and generous supporter of Ngāti Hauiti, always willing to lend a hand, whether quietly helping in the kitchen at Rātā Marae, tea towel in hand, or being present at the many events and kaupapa they shared.
Through Lynley’s vision, dedication, and steadfast support, she has helped Whakauae make a significant contribution both to the academy and to the wellbeing of our people. We marked her last day with cake in the office and lunch together, where she was presented with flowers and a taonga in recognition of all she has given. Lynley leaves with our deepest thanks and warmest appreciation. We wish her every happiness, fulfilment, and joy as she steps into this next chapter.
