WHO WE ARE

Kerri Dewson:

Kerri worked as social worker based in Whanganui. Although now retired, she held a strong commitment to supporting individuals and families and brought compassion and expertise to her role. 

Passionate about community well-being, Kerri collaborated with local services and organisations to enhance the lives of those she worked with. She was particularly focused on advocacy, mental health support, and empowering individuals to build resilience. Through her work, Kerri made a meaningful impact in the Whanganui community and continues to make a meaningful impact as the PONZ president. 

Mike Prouting:

 Mike works in the Southern Region for Te Whatu Ora as a clinical psychologist with the Cancer Psychosocial Service, primarily covering Central Otago, including Queenstown, Wanaka, Cromwell, Alexandra, and Ranfurly. The team strives to collaborate with the Cancer Society, Hospice services, and other primary health organizations in this geographically dispersed rural area.

Given that cancer patients often travel long distances to access secondary services in Dunedin, Invercargill, and beyond, the team aims to provide support closer to where patients live whenever possible. Mike has been working in this service in Central Otago for nearly three years but brings over 35 years of experience in various roles, predominantly within DHB settings, along with a decade in private practice.

PONZ serves as a valuable platform for connecting the diverse professionals and services involved in oncology care across Aotearoa. Mike remains committed to supporting its efforts to strengthen connections between services and communities. 

Viv Hernen: 

Viv Hurnen has been working for Cancer Society, Wellington for 10 years. In her role as a counsellor she works with individuals with cancer, couples, and carers.

Anna Tizard:

Anna is a compassionate and experienced social worker with the Auckland District Health Board (ADHB). She has dedicated her career to supporting individuals and whānau through times of significant need, providing holistic, person-centred care within the hospital and wider community settings.

With a strong grounding in the principles of equity, advocacy, and cultural responsiveness, Anna works collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams to ensure patients receive the support they need—emotionally, socially, and practically. Her areas of focus include acute care, chronic illness, and end-of-life support, and she is deeply committed to improving outcomes for those navigating complex health journeys. Her professionalism and warmth make her a valued colleague and a trusted support for the people she serves.

Anna joined the PONZ committee after attending the conference in 2023. 

Catherine Hiko -Aku whakamaanawanui (with appreciation, a warm greeting):

Catherine Hiko is a Health Psychologist currently working in the Cancer Support team at Counties Manukau – Health New Zealand. She joined the PONZ Executive Committee in November 2023 after attending the PONZ Conference in Wellington.

Catherine is passionate about working in the psycho-oncology space, providing support to cancer patients and their whaanau throughout their journey. She is also eager to collaborate with others in the psychosocial oncology field to enhance service delivery and improve outcomes for those receiving care.

Elise Buttenshaw: 

Elise works as a psychologist currently employed at the Cancer Society Auckland/Northland division where she supports individuals facing the challenges of cancer. She became a PONZ committee member after attending the conference in 2023.  

Her career began with volunteer work, including roles at Youthline and Victim Support, which developed into paid positions at Youthline, Lifeline Aotearoa and Whakarongorau. Previously, Elise worked as a psychologist at Youthline Auckland, specialising in the mental health of rangatahi and young adults. In addition to her work as a psychologist, Elise contributes to the academic community as a portfolio marker for the University of Auckland’s medical school and has been a part of research and publications focused on mental health and well-being.

With an approach to wellness that addresses the physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual components of health, Elise is dedicated to creating supportive, empathetic, and safe spaces for individuals to enhance their well-being.