A former deputy chair of the Canterbury District Health Board is accusing the Ministry of Health and Treasury of an ongoing campaign at the highest levels, to get rid of David Meates.
The DHB's chief executive is one of seven executives to resign as it comes under ministry pressure to bring down a $180 million deficit.
RNZ has been given access to a recording of a speech made by Ta Mark Solomon - also known as Sir Mark Solomon - at a private function to farewell David Meates, where he unleashes on officials over their treatment of Meates.
Conan Young reports.
In a statement provided by the Ministry of Health, the Director-General Dr Ashley Bloomfield says: "I've worked constructively with David Meates for many years, including our time as fellow DHB chief executives and the last two years as Director-General of Health."
