A display of kotahitanga or unity from Iwi Maori Partnership Boards - standing up for their equitable health mandate

All 15 will gather in Taranaki over the next couple of days to oppose moves by the Government to reduce their role in the health system.

The proposed reforms would see the boards shift focus from local service design and delivery - to performing an advisory role.

But Tuwharetoa Board chair Louisa Wall says iwi and hapu want to work in partnership with Health New Zealand.

She says the boards' advocacy for patient-centric and easily accessible health services that meet our needs, is something all New Zealanders want.