
Meet the team

Tracey Kunac
President
Tracey is a CNS in Infectious Diseases at Te Whatu Ora Waikato . Tracey facilitates the Waikato Home IV Antibiotic Programme. She has been a member of IVNNZ since 2003

Frederick Lajara
Treasurer
Fred is a dedicated nurse with a strong passion for vascular access and patient safety. Since relocating from the Philippines to New Zealand in 2013, he has gained diverse clinical experience across aged care, surgical wards, and currently serves as a Vascular Access and OPAT Clinical Nurse Specialist. His work is centred on staff and patient education, developing clinical resources, and leading simulation-based training. He is also actively involved in quality improvement initiatives aimed at reducing idle peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) and vascular access device-related infections.

Zola Evans
Educator Support
Zola is a NE and PICC inserter at the DHB in Tauranga.

Linu Varghese
Educator
Linu is a dedicated healthcare professional with over 20 years of experience, specialising in vascular access. She currently serves as a Specialty Clinical Nurse at Te Whatu Ora MidCentral, where her xpertise and commitment to excellence play a vital role in patient care and clinical outcomes. Linu holds a master’s degree in nursing from Massey University, reflecting her dedication to advancing her knowledge and skills. Passionate about education and mentorship, she is committed to guiding and inspiring junior nurses to uphold best practices and deliver high-quality care consistently. Beyond her professional achievements, Linu enjoys music and is an active member of her community. Her education to both her profession and her community highlights her well-rounded and compassionate nature. Looking ahead, Linu aims to continue contributing to the growth of nursing excellence and fostering innovation in healthcare.

Michelle Casey
Secretary
Michelle is a CNS in Christchurch and leads a team who provide Home IV Antibiotic Therapy in Christchurch.

Ethan Walker
Website
Ethan is an Infection Prevention and Control CNS for Waitaha Canterbury and Te Tai O Poutini West Coast

Bronwynne Anderson
Newsletter
Bronwynne is the CNS Pain at Whanganui Hospital. She does the Central line education for the hospital, including Peripheral Ultrasound sessions. She inserts PICCs, maintains ports, Â assesses PDRPs as required and provides clinical supervision to staff. Â Â She also facilitates HITH for the region.

Brandon Chia
Committee
Brandon Chia is a Clinical Nurse Specialist at Christchurch Hospital. He works in the small and dynamic infusion team.
Life members

Elizabeth Culverwell
Since 2005

Margie Burt
Since 2008

Catherine O'Hara
Since 2016

Katie Laidlow
Since 2021

Lynette Lennox
Since 2022

Tracey Kunac
Since 2004
