Companion Animals New Zealand acknowledges the departure of Professor Nat Waran OBE, whose expertise, leadership, and commitment have made a valued contribution to advancing companion animal welfare through her involvement with our organisation.

Professor Waran has served CANZ in two significant roles – first as Chair of the Board, providing governance and strategic guidance, and more recently as Director of the A Good Life for Animals Centre. During her tenure, she has spearheaded transformative work in research, education, human behaviour change, and advocacy, strengthening the organisation’s ability to support positive welfare outcomes for companion animals. This leadership has not only shaped thinking in New Zealand but also contributed to the global animal welfare community.

Professor Waran will now be focusing on her animal welfare consultancy work, where her internationally recognised expertise in welfare science, education, and policy will continue to make an impact across the wider sector. Her recent recognition with an OBE for her contribution to international animal welfare – particularly equine welfare, research, and education – reflects the high regard in which her work is held.

Companion Animals New Zealand extends our gratitude to Professor Waran for her service and contributions. Nat’s vision and expertise have set a remarkable benchmark, providing the platform from which we are now poised to launch the next chapter of CANZ’s work. We wish her every success in her future endeavours.