Peter Townsend is the Independent Chair of thePHO Board. He brings extensive governance experience and a strong track record of leadership across health, infrastructure, and community organisations.

Peter served on the Board of Pegasus Health for 15 years and was Chair for the final three. His wider governance roles include Te Papa Hauora, Crown Infrastructure Delivery Ltd, the Trust Board of the Airforce Museum, the Board of Warbirds Over Wanaka, and a co-opted position on The Canterbury Community Pharmacy Group Committee.

He is a Chartered Fellow of Institute of Directors New Zealand. In 2014, Lincoln University awarded him an Honorary Doctor of Commerce in recognition of his service to the business community. In 2013, he was appointed a Companion of Order of New Zealand for services to community and business.

As Independent Chair, Peter brings disciplined governance, commercial insight, and deep sector knowledge to support thePHO’s launch on 1 July 2026. He is focused on building a strong national organisation that strengthens frontline general practice and improves equitable access for patients across New Zealand.