Lay summary
Health equity is defined as differences that are avoidable, unfair and unjust (Whitehead, 1991). The aim of this study is to identify what senior nurses' understanding of health equity is and to explore how health equity is embedded into nursing practice, in order to contribute to equitable nursing practice that leads to improved health outcomes for Maori. The project seeks to generate Maori knowledge and reinforce the credibility of Maori health research approaches. The findings of the proposed research are of high relevance to stakeholders with an interest in reducing ethnic inequities in health for Maori. Key groups targeted for dissemination will be: study participants; whanau, hapu, iwi and Maori communities; nursing bodies, health sector policy makers, funders and service providers; and academics.