With a deep understanding of referral pathways in Aotearoa New Zealand, Dr. Cowley recognises the challenges that Pacific communities continue to face when accessing specialist care. 

"Access to referral pathways for New Zealanders and particularly Pacific New Zealanders continues to be challenging. 

"Understanding the referral pathway between primary care and specialist providers is fundamental for us to streamline access for our Etu community. I want to deepen the understanding of these challenges and take the opportunity to be a part of their improvement." 

A proud Sāmoan New Zealander, Dr. Cowley was born and raised in Rotorua. After attending Rotorua Boys' High School and King’s College, he pursued medicine at the University of Otago, where influential mentors guided him toward a career in orthopaedic surgery. 

"From there, early influences from empowering mentors guided me towards orthopaedic surgery and I’ve never looked back. After time training in Auckland, Nelson, and Christchurch, my family and I travelled to Canada for subspecialty training in Spine Surgery. 

"Our young family are now in Christchurch where I’m grateful to be a part of the Spine Team at Christchurch Hospital delivering tertiary level acute and elective spine surgery. In the private sector I work at Ōtautahi Orthopaedics caring for patients with spine issues or arthritic hips and knees." 

As we welcome Dr. Cowley to our 2025 Board of Directors, we are excited about the positive change he will help drive, especially for our patients navigating the complexities of specialist referrals. His expertise will be instrumental in improving pathways for Pacific families seeking equitable healthcare access.