A prominent Kiwi doctor who publicly proposed at a Warriors game and got married in Las Vegas has split with his wife less than a year after the wedding. 

Dr Lance O’Sullivan, a public health advocate and former New Zealander of the Year, has separated from wife Dr Rose Harris after they tied the knot in a Las Vegas chapel in March last year. 

The couple were among the estimated 9000 fans who travelled from Aotearoa to watch the Warriors kick off the 2025 NRL season in Las Vegas. 

O’Sullivan celebrated the trip by proposing to partner and fellow doctor Harris at Allegiant Stadium during the game, with Australia’s Fox Sports capturing the moment on camera. 

The couple then got hitched at a Las Vegas chapel days later. 

In a statement to friends and whānau last Sunday, Harris confirmed they had separated. 

Dr Lance O’Sullivan and Dr Rose Harris separated less than a year after their Las Vegas wedding. Photo / Supplied / Rose Harris 

“Just putting this out for clarity. Lance and I separated some time ago,” Harris’ statement, which she sent to the Herald, read. 

“We came to a point in our lives, where our visions and future directions and goals were no longer aligned and my career has taken a new pathway. It was a considered decision made with honesty, aroha, and respect for each other and our families.” 

Harris said it was an amicable separation. 

“We have both since moved on with our lives and are happy. I have the utmost respect for him and his adorable whānau, and we will always remain on good terms, continuing with kindness. 

“While I am based in Aotearoa, I am currently working abroad and focusing on the next chapter of my life. Xxx. 

“Thank you again to my beautiful whānau and friends for your love and support. Arohanui Rose.” 

O’Sullivan did not respond when approached by the Herald. 

In 2014, O’Sullivan was named New Zealander of the Year in recognition of his advocacy to bring health programmes to disadvantaged rural areas. 

The outspoken Far North GP was previously married to ex-wife Tracy, with whom he set up low-cost health clinic, Te Kohanga Whakaora, in Kaitaia and had seven children. 

Harris, also a strong advocate for health in Northland, is managing director of Māori Health Limited and founder of Hine Health. 

She is also the auntie of Warriors captain James Fisher-Harris.