Harper Whitley

Harper Whitley first appeared in May 2013, portrayed by Ria Vandervis.[6] Vandervis was hired under a 6-month recurring contract that was later extended to a regular role. She struggled with the extension due to personal relationship issues and considered quitting the show.[7]

Harper arrived in May from New York, supposedly to visit best friend Sarah Potts (Amanda Billing). She soon got a job at the hospital, took Sarah's job and began to date her ex-husband TK Samuels (Benjamin Mitchell), much to the annoyance of Sarah. It later turned out Harper had been involved in a high up criminal family in America and when her ex-boyfriend arrived, she briefly considered running away with him but decided to stay in New Zealand. Harper soon discovered she was in love with TK despite his reconciliation with Sarah but shocked all when she began to date Nicole Miller (Sally Martin). In August 2014, Harper was devastated that her best friend Sarah had passed away and spoke at her funeral. In 2015 she began a relationship with Boyd Rolleston, and became engaged by August. In the final episode of 2015, Harper and Boyd had to have their wedding postponed due to Gareth Hutchins holding Shortland Street hostage, but this proved to be a good thing as they later broke off their engagement after Harper realised she was in love with Dr.Drew MaCaskill when he got shot in the cliffhanger. Harper has been on and off CEO during Rachel's absence throughout 2014-2016, and was caught up in her friend Rachel McKenna's drama in September 2016. After Rachel returned from rehab, she took back her position as CEO and gave Harper the 2IC position. But after a fight about work related issues, Rachel fired Harper in the reception area in front of the staff, embarrassing her. She later apologised to Harper, and departed Ferndale. Since then, Harper has continued her unsteady relationship with Drew.

A fan of the soap opera reportedly named her daughter 'Harper Ria' in honour of Vandervis and her character.[8]