Board

Karen Billings-Jensen - Chief Executive Officer

Check out Karen's staff profile here.

Wayne Bradshaw - National President

Wayne is on the Board of Havelock North Age Concern and currently holds the role of Chair. Having been self-employed for most of his working life in property, hospitality, horticulture and accommodation sectors. Wayne believes it is important to bring his skills and experience to assist and progress the rights of older people both in his community and nationally.

Stephen Phillips - National Vice President

Stephen worked in local government for over 35 years and in the NFP sector for 8 years. He was Chief Executive of Age Concern Canterbury for 5 years and now sits on its board, and on a number of trusts. He understands the importance of, and is committed to, working to achieve the wellbeing, rights, respect and dignity of older people. Stephen was awarded the Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to seniors and the community in 2021.

Dale Little, Board Member

Dale is on the Board of Age Concern Hawkes Bay and is also involved in community action with her local Women's Centre as well as Te Whatu Ora mental health services. She has a particular interest in the challenges faced by older people living solely on super, with the rising cost of living and the current housing crisis.

Kathy Peri, Board Member

I am a passionate advocate for older people across Aotearoa New Zealand, dedicated to ensuring equity for older people. I am currently a member of Auckland Age Concern Trust Board and have a strong leadership background.

I am highly respected for my networking skills, having established valuable connections across all sectors of aged care in New Zealand including the community, marae, and aged care facilities. My  extensive network is reflected in the numerous professional and governance roles I have been appointed to.

Liz Henry, Board Member

Liz is the Board Chair for Age Concern Southland, is a Barrister and Solicitor, Mediator (non Accredited), parkrunner and is passionate about encouraging a better later life for those in our senior community. She believes that finding something important and meaningful in your life is the most productive use of your time and energy, and she has found that in her work with her clients and community. Her work in alternative dispute resolution, advocacy, estate planning and community development support is backed by her belief in the theory of critical hope.  

Robert Aitken, Board Member

Robert is a Professor in Marketing at the University of Otago’s Business School. He first became involved with Age Concern in 2007 when he was co-opted to the national board for a two year term to develop a new brand position for the organisation. In 2010 he was elected to Age Concern Otago’s board and has served as Chair since March 2013. He is excited he can again put in his energy and contribute his experience at national level.

Jan White, Board Member

Jan has spent 40 years working in the health and disability sector predominantly in our communities and has a strong commitment to supporting the well being of Older People.She has a long history serving on various NFP Boards and is conversant with the importance of strong ,strategic governance to ensure organisational growth and impact . Jan was awarded the Queen’s Service Medal for services to seniors and people with disabilities in 2021.

Christina Brenton, Board Member

Christina is the current Chair of Age Concern Palmerston North and Districts in Palmerston North.
Trained as a Medical Technologist (Microbiology) she has always had a keen interest in health. After being self employed for many years, Christina worked with Red Cross and St John before moving into Elder Health, and managed a Retirement Village in Palmerston North.
Elected to the ACNZ Board in 2022  Christina looks forward to supporting local Age Concerns who contribute so much to older adult community members throughout NZ.