In February we examine the road ahead across nursing sectors as the COVID-19 Omicron variant looms for the nation. We also examine the impact of the ongoing pandemic on student graduate numbers, and Māori health. Plus we talk to nurses who are at the sharp end of the efforts to protect Aotearoa – our vaccination nurses. It all comes as NZNO district health board (DHB) members get to vote on ratifying an in-principle agreement on pay equity with DHBs. What does this mean? We also focus on the challenges of preparing nursing graduates to work in a regional setting.