Organising Committee
Meet your Te Aka Tauwhiro Organising Committee
The New Zealand Society of Anaesthetists – Ngā Ringa Tauwhiro o Aotearoa introduced Te Aka Tauwhiro through a desire to support our Aotearoa trainee community with a unique educational meeting that facilitates quality learning and connection.
The organising committee, Drs James McAlpine, Anne Chiang and Dairshini Sithambaram, have curated a diverse programme that explores scientific topics, non-technical skills relevant to a career in anaesthesia, and preparation for the transition to SMO (Senior Medical Officer). Thanks to the support of colleagues from across the motu, anaesthetists and experts in their field, who will bring the programme to life.
We look forward to welcoming you to Tāhuna Queenstown in November.
Dr James McApline
Dr James McAlpine is a consultant anaesthetist at Te Whatu Ora Capital, Coast and Hutt Valley, working in Wellington, where he alternates between the general and obstetric call rosters. James is a Supervisor of Training in his department, familiar with supporting trainees through the ANZCA training programme. He also holds the NZSA’s Education portfolio on the Society’s Executive Committee and is the NZSA representative on the Aotearoa New Zealand Anaesthesia Education Committee (ANZAEC).
Dr Anne Chiang
Dr Anne Chiang is an Advanced Trainee Anaesthetist based in Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington. Anne completed her Basic Training in Te Papaioea Palmerston North and also worked in Ōtautahi Christchurch as an Anaesthesia Senior House Officer. Anne is a Trainee Representative on the NZSA’s Executive Committee, where she aims to lead initiatives that increase trainee involvement and their sense of community within the NZSA.
Dr Dairshini Sithambaram
Dr Dairshini Sithambaram is an Advanced Trainee Anaesthetist based in Te Toka Tumai Auckland. Dairshini moved to Aotearoa after completing nearly four years of anaesthesia training in Scotland. She is a Trainee Representative on the NZSA’s Executive Committee, where she contributes to guiding the NZSA in how it listens to and voices concerns on the changing needs of the anaesthesia speciality, from the perspective of trainees’ needs.