A push to encourage more Maori and Pasifika to join the nursing workforce

Nursing Council data shows Maori make up just seven percent of the nursing workforce - Pasifika just four percent.

The New Zealand Nurses Organisation is calling on political parties to explain how they'll fund more nurses.

Kaiwhakahaere Kerri Nuku says any recruitment initiatives must be focused on having more Maori and Pasifika nurses.

She says removing financial barriers by having earn as you learn programs would be a start.