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April 2026

   

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Kia ora tātou


A month ago, Hauora Taiwhenua hosted the 21st Rural WONCA Conference 2026 in Wellington, integrated with our longstanding rural health conference. With nearly 1,000 attendees from over 40 countries, it was a powerful demonstration of global commitment to improving rural health, despite ongoing challenges in international travel.

 

We opened with a phenomenal Pōwhiri organised by Te Rōpū Ārahi. The process of the pōwhiri was described for our international audience, and the visual experience and mana were enhanced by the presence of some incredible korowai that we had the privilege of wearing, which had been kindly loaned for the event by Kaumātua Russell Riki and his whānau.

 

Our keynote presenters were outstanding. Dr Di and Mark Kopua opened with a presentation deeply grounded in Mātauranga Māori, signalling from the outset that this would be a quite different type of conference. Professor Dee Mangin was another clear standout for me, with her precise, evidence-based talk on the value of general practice and continuity of care. Dr Jo Scott-Jones was the recipient of Rural WONCA’s John Macleod Oration Award and gave a thoughtful and humbling presentation that resonated with many attendees. One of my takeaways from his speech was the “vomit principle” - that if you have a good idea, you need to keep sharing it as widely and as often as possible.

 

The political sessions on the first day were most notable for the fact that at the last-minute, Minister Brown needed to cancel. Minister Doocey stepped in and spoke in support of the six key focus areas within the Aotearoa New Zealand Declaration. While he was unable to commit to the requested actions, he did announce $1 million to support further generalist training for rural GPs and nurse practitioners.

 

The workshops were humming with talented people from around the world, all coming together with a common passion for rural health and a wealth of knowledge. Our key theme of Whānau Ora ensured a strong focus on indigenous solutions for indigenous people in rural healthcare, and on the importance of listening to and involving communities. This resonated deeply with many indigenous healthcare practitioners who had travelled significant distances to attend and who felt genuinely included and heard during their time with us.

 

One of the women who had made that trip was a doctor whom I’d met on a bus in South Africa when I had gone out to Cape Town to lobby for Hauora Taiwhenua to hold the conference back in October 2024. She runs a small rural hospital on the border with Mozambique and was telling me how it had seemed almost impossible that she would get to this conference, but almost at the last minute, she had got a sponsorship and committed to the very long trip to get here, leaving her family and hospital behind.

 

Two others who had managed to get a funded trip were the Inaugural WWPRP FLIGHT Grant Recipients Dewanto Andoko from Indonesia and Manuel Jacob from Kerala, India who had the added benefit of having hosted stays at Hauora Hokianga and Kaikoura Health services, respectively. Including these young rural health leaders from low-income countries was a real pleasure and added to the depth of experience for us all.

 

There was also a unique opportunity to provide feedback to the World Health Organisation on the draft Global Plan of Action for Indigenous Health, with Theodora Swift Koller attending from Geneva. This session was facilitated by Tania Chamberlain and our Whānau Whānui chapter, reflecting our organisational commitment to grassroots involvement at every level. In addition, Theodora also spoke about rural proofing - something adopted early within rural industries in New Zealand, but which has taken longer to gain traction within health.

 

Sir Ashley Bloomfield and Sir Colin Tukuitonga were among our other impressive keynote speakers. Equally impressive were the many oral presentations delivered by grassroots rural health clinicians from New Zealand and around the world. The range of parallel sessions was enormous and often made it difficult to decide what to attend. The poster presentations and lightning talks were also extensive and of a very high standard.

 

Then there was the food. It is not often that you can honestly say conference catering was fantastic, but this was next level. The seafood platter (including oysters) even received a standing ovation when it arrived. The kai reflected our manaakitanga, and we were proud to offer our international guests such a memorable taste of Aotearoa New Zealand.

 

Music and cultural performances were woven throughout the event, culminating in an unforgettable performance by the Pātea Māori Club that had many of us up participating. Our social events were also extremely well attended, particularly the welcome function at the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa and the prizegiving dinner at Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre. Peter Freeman received the Peter Snow Award, Julia Jones the Te Waka Kotahitanga Award, Stephen Ram the Emerging Rural Researcher Award, and Katelyn Costello the Emerging Rural Educator Award. Our inaugural award in memory of Rhoena Davis was presented to Tania Chamberlain.

 

Prior to the conference, we also hosted the Rural WONCA Council and Rural WONCA Assembly, which saw the launch of GRACE (Global Rural Health Action Collaboration and Excellence) by Dr Pratyush Kumar, the current President of Rural WONCA. GRACE aims to create a framework that connects and recognises organisations making a difference to rural health worldwide. The Assembly included brief presentations from many international organisations covering a wide range of topics relevant to rural health.

 

Our journey in developing this conference has been closely connected with Rural WONCA through both Dr Pratyush Kumar and Professor Bruce Chater, the immediate past Chair. We are extremely grateful for their support and enthusiasm for the uniquely Aotearoa approach we wanted to bring to the event. We were also privileged to have Dr Viviana Martinez-Bianchi, President of WONCA World, attend and participate throughout the conference, including finishing with a stay at one of our kaumātua rural pā - an experience she will undoubtedly never forget.

 

The feedback from the conference has been fantastic; it seems many are still buzzing from what was more of a transformational event than a mere conference. Like most things rural, it has taken a very dedicated team to deliver such a world-class event and a huge thanks to all of you involved; this was certainly a “job well done”. Thank you also to the sponsors whose support made the conference possible.

 

However, the work does not end here. A key part of any Rural WONCA conference is its legacy, and with the launch of the Aotearoa New Zealand Declaration, we will be shining a light on the solutions that could be actioned for New Zealand and key learnings from this that can be taken to the world stage, particularly with the focus on rural indigenous health solutions to address health equity.

 

With the elections around the corner, this is an opportunity for politicians from all sides to make rural health a priority and put the actions we have called for into their work plans. As for the rest of us, we all leave feeling invigorated by the power of grassroots rural and the commonality we have, no matter where in the world we work with our shared passion for rural health.

 

Ngā mihi

Fiona

   
   
   

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Rural Health Snapshot 2026 Released 

Hauora Taiwhenua’s Rural Health Snapshot 2026 is now available, providing the most up-to-date evidence on the health and wellbeing of rural communities across Aotearoa. Drawing on the latest Census 2023 data and strengthened by the Geographic Classification for Health, the report offers a clearer picture than ever before of rural health outcomes and inequities. 


The snapshot shows that more than 900,000 people live in rural New Zealand, yet ongoing disparities in access, workforce availability, and health outcomes remain a significant concern. It reinforces that where you live continues to shape your health—particularly for Māori and those in more remote communities—highlighting the urgent need for targeted, equity-focused solutions. 


Encouragingly, the report also points to progress driven by sustained advocacy, including improvements to rural funding models, new urgent care approaches, and better data to inform decision-making. 


The Rural Health Snapshot 2026 is a critical tool for policymakers, providers, and communities alike—shining a light on both the challenges and the opportunities to build a more equitable rural health system.
   

Student Research Spotlight: Disaster Preparedness on the West Coast

We’re pleased to share this report from Annise Boothroyd-Drury, a recipient of the 2025–26 Hauora Taiwhenua Rural Health Research Studentship.


Annise undertook her summer research project through the Centre for Rural Health at the University of Otago, focusing on disaster preparedness on the West Coast. Her work was recently presented at the WONCA Rural Conference 2026.


Below, Annise reflects on her research experience, key insights, and the process of undertaking a rural health research project.

Over the 2025/2026 summer, I undertook a summer research studentship with the Centre for Rural Health, UoO. This was funded by the Hauora Taiwhenua Rural Health Network Student Research Scholarship. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity provided by HTRHN. The studentship provided me with a valuable learning experience regarding research in general, and relevant to my research topic. This document outlines some of the key learnings that I took from the summer in regard to research. Along with this, I had many learnings relevant to my research question; this surrounded disaster preparedness, previous disaster response, interagency capabilities, medical considerations of disaster and the challenges of providing healthcare in rural/remote communities. This was a topic that greatly interested me; therefore, I was very grateful to be able to gain more understanding.


A key learning point also surrounded West Coast Health and connections of the PHOs. It was incredibly beneficial to develop an understanding of the context of care on the West Coast, and the complexities of providing accessible healthcare. This was something which I had not greatly considered prior to the studentship; however, I feel that the context of care has been one of my key takeaways and will be incredibly useful as I proceed through ALM/clinical years.


Furthermore, it was exciting to accumulate my findings into a report, and to have the opportunity to present this. I am looking forward to sharing the research at WONCA, and hope that the findings can provide insight for West Coast PHO in future AF8 planning considerations.


Acknowledgments

A massive thank you must be extended to my supervisors, Emma and Kati, who were extremely supportive, providing incredible assistance and advice at all stages of the project. To Maggi, who provided essential insight into the PHO and directed the considerations for this project. I simply could not have done this without their incredible support.


Overall

This project provided me with great insight into the research community, its importance, and what is involved. Having gone through the entire process (briefly), it opened me to the many stages and research and the endless possibilities involved. I found it very beneficial, both to understand the process of research as it is relevant to our medical curriculum, and to learn about the actual topic. Connection with the other students and wider research community also provided valuable support. Having not considered research in the future, it made me realise the appeal of investigating a topic of interest in greater depth. The studentship also made me recognise the importance of having data to present when raising matters with staff, and the need to seek/develop this data when it is not already available.


If I were to provide advice to future recipients, some of my key learnings (specific to the summer studentship) include:

  • Developing clear research questions and objectives is vital to keeping on task.
  • Establishing a good system for recording the literature review findings.
  • Starting recruitment early.
  • Potentially considering an alternative if participation is low. This would also prevent dragging the research out, as it is difficult when university has started.

Ethics and proposal:

The first stage, prior to funding, was application for the SRS with a research proposal. This process was a lot more time-consuming that I had expected. It was interesting to think through what we wanted to get out of the research. I found that it could get a bit complicated when going in circles and loosing track of what the end goal would be, whilst working out what was feasible in the time frame of a summer studentship. Once the objectives and aims were established, this became a lot clearer and made the rest of the process much smoother.


Proposal review raised interesting and specific points that made me realise how important it is to give clear instruction, as reviewers and committees will not know what they are approving otherwise. Formation of the participant sheets, consent forms etc was relatively smooth once proposal had been accepted and finalised. Not only was it a simple template, but the idea had been solidified, and this provided a lot more clarity for me to understand what would be happening. It was really interesting considering the privacy concerns of dealing with confidential data and personal information. The process of HCS and using a University laptop was one that I had not thought about, and it made me realise how important it is to have these methods in place to protect the participants.

  • Takes a long time
  • Solidifies the idea and forms basis of what you want to get out of the research
  • Ethics restriction and laptop/storage etc

Literature review:

I began looking at the literature with random selection of reading articles to provide some background information of what was published and how this would drive my research goals. Initially, I did not have a formal search strategy. This included during the proposal and discovering what I wanted to achieve (by understanding what data was already out there).


Once I began the actual review, I had a meeting with Kristy Ballard (UoO Library) which was incredibly helpful to develop a search strategy and learn about different ways to find papers (eg references in journal articles and checking citations). It opened me to the enormous database there is, and the possibility of accessing many relevant papers. Due to the time constraints, I had to establish inclusion criteria that gave me a feasible number of studies. The decision of location was a difficult one; we considered doing high-income countries, but were concerned that the rural lens would be too different for some, due to the size, geographic spread and rurality classifications. The decision to include only papers that involved AUS or NZ was very useful and greatly reduced my search. Other decisions included whether to include ED data (opposed to solely primary care) and data from other professions (eg Nurses, Rural Hospital Specialists). Having a clear research question and objectives really solidified these decisions.

  • Necessity to form strong boundaries (and stick to them), even if the paper is interesting.
  • Frustration of interesting/useful data that misses an inclusion criteria.
  • Knowing that a literature review could go be extended but recognising the feeling that it was beginning to provide the same information and therefore was time to move on. This was accompanied by an urge to start putting the information together and writing something down.
  • Recognising that you could go very in-depth to analyse the paper and validity, but it isn’t fully necessary in all contexts.
Interviews:

Using a qualitative process was very interesting. The process of this study type is something which, I feel, we have not been greatly exposed to through medical school, as processes tended to focus on a quantitative approach. I recognised the importance of having solid processes written down for each stage (recruitment, participation, consent). There were many aspects that I had not considered: the structure of sending out for recruitment (eg advertisement, then information, then consent and demographics), the use of transcription, how to save data anonymously, etc. It became apparent that rehearsals were incredibly necessary, especially with the use of AI transcription. I was also surprised at the level of information that I had developed over the literature review, and how much this had to be condensed for the interview background information. This was due to time constraints of the interview itself, the likelihood of overwhelming participants with statistics in such a short period, and the potential for loss of interest. Another important recognition was how the background information could have led the participant down certain through processes, and potentially skewed results. Providing a brief, succinct background was beneficial in reducing this risk.


I was also surprised at the level of analysis and the importance of reducing the author’s interpretation of results (especially in the case of qualitative data). It was easy to misinterpret what was being said, both in interviews and in the literature, based on what the author wanted to hear. I recognised the importance of removing yourself from any prior knowledge in order to derive the key messages, before then applying them to the context and the relevant background information.

  • Difficulty of recruitment
  • Necessity of rehearsals
  • Such little information is required for the participants, it will overwhelm them in such a short time frame.
  • Being careful of what you say in intro and interview, can be leading.

Advocacy Update: Representing Rural Voices Across Aotearoa

Over the past two months, Hauora Taiwhenua’s advocacy team has been actively representing members across a wide range of national forums, submissions, and sector engagements — ensuring rural perspectives remain front and centre in key health decisions.


From submissions on PHARMAC consultations and the Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy, to ongoing negotiations with Health New Zealand on primary care funding, our work continues to focus on improving access, equity, and sustainability for rural communities. Alongside this, extensive member engagement — including visits to practices across the motu — is helping ground our advocacy in real-world experience.


There is also significant progress across major initiatives, including the Rural Urgent Care Prototype Project, workforce data planning, and preparations for RuralFest 2026.


Read the full Advocacy Update below: 


This is your work in action - shaping policy, strengthening rural health, and advocating for better outcomes for our communities.

Marie Daly

GM Advocacy 

   
   

Rural Urgent Care Prototype: Report and Videos Now Live

Health New Zealand has released the Rural Urgent Care (RUC) Prototype Project report and supporting videos, showcasing innovative models of care designed to improve access to urgent and after-hours services in rural and remote communities.


This work highlights the experiences of participating sites across Aotearoa, including practical insights into delivering care in some of our most geographically isolated settings. The accompanying videos bring these stories to life — capturing the realities, challenges, and solutions that underpin rural urgent care delivery.


We’re proud to have supported this work alongside Health NZ and acknowledge the contribution of communities and providers involved, including those featured in the videos.


We encourage members to explore and share these resources across your networks.

   

Rural WONCA 2026 brought together rural health leaders, clinicians, researchers, educators, Indigenous voices, and communities from across Aotearoa New Zealand and around the world. 


This video captures more than a conference — it captures a movement grounded in connection, collaboration, and a shared commitment to healthy and thriving rural communities. 


From powerful keynote discussions and cultural exchange, to the launch of the Aotearoa New Zealand Declaration on Rural Health, Rural WONCA 2026 created space for global ideas, local leadership, and meaningful action. Featuring reflections from Rural WONCA Chair Pratyush Kumar and Hauora Taiwhenua Chair Fiona Bolden, this video explores the importance of Indigenous leadership, rural collaboration, and the future direction of rural healthcare both in Aotearoa and internationally. 


This is not just a look back at what happened — it is a reminder of what comes next. Hauora Taiwhenua Rural Health Network Growing healthy and thriving rural communities.
   
   

Rural WONCA 2026 - Hauora Taiwhenua Awards

   
   

Peter Snow Memorial Award 2026: 

Dr Peter Freeman

Dr Peter Freeman, a retired Emergency Physician from Rotorua, has been awarded the Peter Snow Memorial Award at the 21st WONCA World Rural Health Conference.


For more than a decade, Peter has played a pivotal role in strengthening emergency care capability in rural Aotearoa. Through largely voluntary work, he has supported rural clinicians to build the skills and confidence needed to respond to high-stakes emergencies — often in isolated settings where specialist support is limited or unavailable.


In 2015, recognising a gap in practical, context-specific training, Peter established RESCyou – Rural Emergency Skills Course with support from Mobile Health Group. The programme delivers hands-on, team-based training directly into rural hospitals and clinics, ensuring learning reflects the realities of each community.


Courses are developed in partnership with local clinicians, focusing on the emergencies they are most likely to face — from severe respiratory events to paediatric crises — and delivered using familiar equipment in real clinical environments.


The impact of this work is significant. RESCyou has delivered 12 courses across 10 rural towns, training more than 160 clinicians and providing over 1,200 hours of education. Participants consistently report increased confidence and preparedness, with many attributing successful management of critical emergencies to the training received.


Beyond delivery, Peter’s commitment is deeply practical. He has invested extensive time in developing and refining the programme, travelling to remote locations, transporting equipment, and working alongside clinicians to ensure training is relevant, accessible, and of high quality.


His contribution reflects the intent of the Peter Snow Memorial Award — recognising sustained service, innovation, and a commitment to improving health outcomes for rural communities.
   
   
   

Rhoena Davis Wahine Rangatiratanga Women in Rural Health Leadership 2026: Tania Chamberlain

Tania Chamberlain (Ngāti Kahungunu ki Tāmaki-nui-a-Rua), Chief Operations Officer of Ngāti Kahungunu ki Tāmaki-nui-a-Rua Trust in Tararua, has been named the inaugural recipient of the Rhoena Davis Wāhine Rangatira Women in Rural Health Leadership Award at the 21st WONCA World Rural Health Conference.


This new award honours the legacy of Rhoena Davis and recognises wāhine who demonstrate outstanding leadership in rural health, advance equity, and embody kaupapa Māori values including kotahitanga, manaakitanga, and rangatiratanga.


Tania is recognised for her transformative leadership and long-standing commitment to hauora equity, grounded in more than 30 years of experience across primary care, hospice, aged residential care, and iwi-led service delivery.


Her leadership is deeply connected to the Tararua community she serves. Under her guidance, Te Kahu Hauora has been established as an iwi-led, whānau-centred model of care — integrating general practice, outreach services, mental health support, and community initiatives to better meet the needs of rural whānau.


Working through significant health system change, Tania has strengthened operational resilience while ensuring services remain responsive, culturally grounded, and accessible. Her approach positions governance and service design as tools to improve equity and outcomes for Māori and rural communities.


Alongside system leadership, Tania is a committed mentor and advocate for future leaders. Through her work with Hauora Taiwhenua and across the sector, she actively supports the development of emerging Māori and wāhine leaders, with a focus on long-term sustainability and community-led solutions.


Her contribution reflects the purpose of this award — recognising leadership that uplifts whānau, strengthens rural health systems, and creates pathways for future generations.
   
   
   

Te Waka Kotahitanga Award 2026: 

Julia Jones

As Workforce Lead Medical at Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora, Julia Jones has played a pivotal role in shaping and strengthening Aotearoa’s health workforce, with a clear and enduring focus on improving access to care for rural communities.


With a career spanning the Ministry of Health and district health boards, Julia brings a deep understanding of system design, workforce development, and the relationships required to deliver meaningful, long-term change. Her work has supported key initiatives to grow the general practice workforce, create clearer pathways for international and locally trained doctors, and enhance training opportunities that connect clinicians more closely with community and primary care settings.


Julia is widely respected for her collaborative approach—bringing together agencies, professional bodies, and frontline providers to align efforts toward a more equitable health system. Her leadership reflects a strong commitment to continuity of care, workforce sustainability, and ensuring rural communities are not left behind.


The Te Waka Kotahitanga Award recognises outstanding contribution from within the system, and Julia’s work exemplifies the spirit of kotahitanga—unity of purpose. Through her influence, dedication, and ability to navigate complexity, she has helped steer meaningful progress for rural health in Aotearoa.
   
   
   

Hauora Taiwhenua Emerging Rural Researcher Award 2026: 

Dr Stephen Ram

Dr Stephen Ram is recognised as an emerging rural health researcher whose work demonstrates both academic excellence and real-world impact. As a clinician-researcher at the University of Waikato, his research bridges the gap between rural health theory and the lived experiences of rural communities.


His work is actively used to inform and advocate for improved rural health services, contributing to more equitable outcomes for the 20 percent of New Zealanders living outside major urban centres. His recent publication on the role of rural hospitals in community health represents a significant contribution to the field, highlighting the importance of these services from a community perspective.


Dr Ram’s work exemplifies the value of research that is grounded in practice, responsive to community need, and focused on strengthening rural health systems across Aotearoa New Zealand.
   
   
   

Hauora Taiwhenua Emerging Rural Educator Award 2026: 

Dr Katelyn Costello

Dr Katelyn Costello is a passionate and emerging leader in rural medical education, whose commitment to teaching, mentorship, and community-based learning is already shaping the next generation of rural health professionals in Aotearoa.


As a rural GP and Education Lead at Queenstown Medical Centre, Katelyn plays a central role in creating a supportive, high-quality learning environment for students and early-career doctors. Her approach to education is grounded in real-world rural practice—ensuring learners are not only clinically capable, but also deeply connected to the communities they serve.


Katelyn co-leads the Otago Rural Medical Immersion Programme (RMIP), where she has particular responsibility for student assessment. In this role, she is known for her thoughtful, learner-centred approach—balancing academic rigour with genuine care and encouragement. She is deeply invested in helping students build confidence, resilience, and a clear sense of purpose within rural health.


Colleagues and students alike describe Katelyn as an inspiring educator—someone who leads with curiosity, generosity, and a genuine passion for learning. Whether in the clinic, the classroom, or on the conference stage, she brings energy and purpose to her work, consistently lifting those around her.


The Emerging Rural Educator Award recognises rising leaders who are making a meaningful impact early in their careers. Dr Costello exemplifies this, with a growing influence that will continue to shape rural health education for years to come.
   
   

Luke Baddington

GM Workforce Recruitment 

Our NZMedJobs & NZLocums Orientation Programme is a key part of how we support internationally trained clinicians to arrive well-prepared and ready to contribute from day one. Delivered monthly via our virtual platform, this well-regarded three-day course provides a comprehensive introduction to the New Zealand health system, with a strong focus on the realities of rural general practice in Aotearoa.

 

The programme covers essential systems and day-to-day practice requirements, including general practice in New Zealand, the role of rural nurses, PHARMAC, ACC, Work and Income, taxation, and medical protection. It also places strong emphasis on Māori culture, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and achieving equitable health outcomes—ensuring clinicians understand both the clinical and cultural context of working in rural communities.

 

Clinicians also gain access to our online Orientation Hub, available before and after the virtual programme, enabling them to prepare in advance and reinforce key learnings once they begin practice. Feedback from both participants and practices highlights improved preparedness and smoother integration—reducing onboarding time and supporting safer, more confident practice from the outset.

 

To learn more, visit NZMedJobs Orientation, email orientation@nzlocums.com, or call 04 472 3901.
   
   

Clutha Health First: A Community-Owned Healthcare Success Story

In the heart of the Clutha District, a remarkable healthcare facility stands as a testament to what communities can achieve when they unite for a common cause. Clutha Health First – Hauora Tahi Ki Iwikatea represents more than just a medical centre; it embodies the determination of a community that refused to let its essential health services disappear.


A Rich History of Community Healthcare

Healthcare in the Clutha District has deep roots, beginning with the first hospital opening in Kaitangata in 1908. Balclutha Hospital followed in February 1926 on Hospital Road, eventually growing to serve the region with 89 beds and 110 staff at its peak in 1994. The facility operated its own nursing training programme and housed a large nurses’ home, becoming a cornerstone of the community.


However, the health reforms of the 1990s threatened this vital service. When the Otago Area Health Board proposed removing surgical services in 1991, the community responded with unprecedented unity. Public meetings were held, the Balclutha Hospital Support Group was formed, and almost the entire community marched in Dunedin to oppose the closure. While they initially succeeded in retaining services, ongoing funding pressures eventually led to the withdrawal of specialist medical and surgical services in 1994.


Innovation Born from Necessity

Faced with the prospect of losing their hospital entirely, in 1997, the community was given by the Ministry of Health just 90 days to develop and present a sustainable health services plan. The response was both swift and innovative. The Clutha Health Services Committee formed a bold vision: consolidate all health services under one roof in a community-owned facility.


This vision became reality on December 1, 1998, when Clutha Health First opened its doors. The transition was so seamless that services moved overnight from the old hospital with assistance from the New Zealand Army Reserves, who happened to be conducting local exercises at the time.


Comprehensive Integrated Care

Today, Clutha Health First serves the district’s circa 20,000 residents with 8,500 enrolled patients in its owned and operated general practice through a truly integrated healthcare model. Under one roof, the community enjoys access to:

  • A 14-bed acute medicine and rehabilitation inpatient unit
  • Primary maternity services, including a birthing suite and post-natal inpatient beds
  • Community nursing and allied health services
  • Chemotherapy and Infusion Clinics
  • Day Rehabilitation
  • Public and private outpatient services
  • A General Practice with a Medical Assessment Unit for acute and unplanned care
  • After-hours Urgent Care in partnership with Ka Ora and Emergency Consult
  • On-site radiology, sonography, community laboratory, and physiotherapy services

This comprehensive approach means residents can receive a significant component of their primary, community, and secondary healthcare needs locally, reducing travel and ensuring continuity of care.


Innovation and Resourcefulness in Action

Clutha Health First continues to pioneer innovative solutions to rural healthcare challenges. Since March 2002, the facility has hosted the Mobile Surgical Bus, providing specialised surgical services that have benefited over 1,500 patients as of December 2025. The clinical teams embrace innovative technology, which is complemented by accessing the same digital platform and systems as Health New Zealand – Southern, extending to emerging technologies (including AI transcription in Primary Care) and extensive in-house training (such as simulation-based team training).


The facility employs 93 dedicated staff members, with 38% working full-time and 58% part-time, working alongside locum positions as needed. Strong partnerships with organisations like Wellsouth, Pacific Radiology, Awanui Laboratories, and Southern Physiotherapy Service ensure comprehensive care delivery.


A Model for the Future

As General Manager of Clinical Services, Nicky Vaughan explains, Clutha Health First remains committed to enhancing services for the community while maintaining financial sustainability. At the heart of the organisation are its people – our staff are our greatest asset. From high-quality accommodation to a thorough orientation and welcoming team support, Clutha Health First works hard to ensure every Locum enjoys a positive and comfortable experience. The organisation continues to recruit talented healthcare professionals, offering them the opportunity to work in a modern, well-equipped facility while enjoying the lifestyle benefits of rural living.


The facility’s ongoing capital expenditure programme ensures staff have access to modern equipment, enabling them to provide the highest quality care. Through telecare initiatives and mobile services, Clutha Health First demonstrates that rural communities need not compromise on healthcare quality or accessibility.


Community Ownership, Community Pride

Clutha Health First stands as a shining example of what communities can achieve through determination, innovation, and collaboration. From the threat of service closure in the 1990s to today’s thriving integrated healthcare facility, this organisation proves that community ownership can deliver sustainable, high-quality healthcare at a much lower cost than its larger HNZ counterparts.


The story of Clutha Health First is ultimately about a community that refused to accept the loss of essential services and instead created something better. It represents a proud past, a resilient present, and a future built by a community, for its community.


For residents of the Clutha District, Clutha Health First isn’t just their healthcare provider – it’s a symbol of what they can accomplish together.


   

Member Spotlight: Lisa Foster, New Individual Membership

I'm Lisa Foster, Chief Executive of the Home and Community Health Association (HCHA), the peak body and national voice for home and community health and support providers across Aotearoa. HCHA represents varied organisations that enable people to live at home and within their communities: kaumātua, tāngata whaikaha, people recovering from acute illness, and those managing long-term conditions, often in rural areas.


I'm thrilled to join Hauora Taiwhenua because rural care is strongest when we are focused on the needs of our communities, with GP practice, homecare providers, community health professionals and the kaiāwhina workforce working in alignment. That connection is at the heart of what I hope to explore here. Where this alignment already exists in rural locations, the outcomes are noticeably better for it.

With the Rural Health Strategy setting a clear direction toward integrated, preventative care closer to home, the home and community health sector is a natural part of that picture. These priorities resonate deeply with home and community providers, and advocating together for their realisation makes every kind of sense. The effects of getting this right ripple outward:healthier whānau, more empowered communities, and reduced pressure on acute and residential services. Those benefits are not always easy to measure, but they are profound and they are real.


The rural dimension of home and community health remains genuinely underserved in national policy conversations, and that is the other reason I am so glad to be part of Hauora Taiwhenua. Too often, policy for our sector is shaped around urban service patterns, leaving rural and remote communities to absorb the consequences, with compounding factors of workforce shortages, inequitable funding, and the quiet weight of geographical distance from decision making. These are the challenges we share, and they sit squarely at the intersection of what HCHA advocates for and what this network truly understands. I'm here to learn, to connect, and where I can, to contribute.

   

Member Spotlight: Lisa Maxwell, New Individual Membership

I am a Nurse Manager in Waikato District, my portfolio incorporates Te Kuiti, Tokoroa and Taumarunui Hospitals along with District Nursing across the district. Nurse Manager is my latest role of a number of senior nursing roles at Waikato where I have worked for the last 30 years.


Outside of work I enjoy spending some time outdoors mountain biking or walking, as well as travelling.


I became a member of the network as I recently attended WONCA in Wellington and realised I was missing out on connections and information across rural health.


What I see as one of the key challenges in rural health right now is the appropriate and timely transfer of patients to tertiary facilities to access specialised investigations that are centralised. This is also provides an opportunity as to how we can improve the transfer of patients, or bring investigations into rural hospitals and make health care more equitable.


I’m always happy to connect with others working in rural health—feel free to reach out via email or LinkedIn.
   

From Funding to Frontline: Supporting Rural Men

Hauora Taiwhenua member Samantha McBride is delivering practical wellbeing support to rural men across the South Island—turning recent Rural Wellbeing Fund investment into on-the-ground impact.


Funded in part through the Government’s Rural Wellbeing Fund, Samantha’s GrowUSwell programme is reaching men working in farming, transport, building, and contracting—groups who are often less likely to engage with traditional wellbeing services.


Delivered in workplaces and community settings, the workshops are designed to be practical, relevant, and easy to engage with. Sessions focus on real-life pressures—covering stress, sleep, nutrition, alcohol, mindset, and relationships—using straightforward language and tools that men can apply in their day-to-day lives.


But it’s the peer-based approach that sets GrowUSwell apart.


While initial scepticism is common, that quickly shifts once men are in the room. Over a series of workshops, trust builds. Conversations open up. And the real value begins to come from each other.


“We’re seeing guys open up about things they haven’t talked about before,” says McBride. “But more importantly, we’re seeing them support each other. That peer element is everything.”


Grounded in Rural Reality

Across the workshops, the same challenges continue to surface—ongoing financial and workload pressures, isolation, fatigue, and limited access to support that feels relevant.


There is also a strong culture of “just getting on with it,” which can make it harder to seek support early.


GrowUSwell responds by meeting men where they are—keeping it practical, non-clinical, and focused on small changes that make a difference before challenges escalate.


Small Changes, Real Impact

Early outcomes show men are making simple but meaningful shifts—improving sleep, eating better, cutting back alcohol, and building stronger connections with others.


In some cases, the impact extends beyond the workshops. One participant shared that the programme sparked ongoing conversations within their team and helped build connections that supported a colleague through a difficult time.


For Samantha, success is simple and grounded. It’s men walking away with one or two tools they’ll actually use.


It’s a shift in mindset—from “I can’t” to “I think I can.” It’s feeling less alone, and more open to talking with others.


Backing What Works

Support from the Rural Wellbeing Fund has enabled GrowUSwell to reach more communities and reduce cost barriers—moving beyond one-off delivery to something more consistent and accessible.


It also highlights a broader lesson: programmes only work if people engage with them. For rural men, that means approaches that are practical, peer-led, and built in environments where trust can grow over time.


GrowUSwell shows what’s possible when funding backs people already doing the mahi in their communities—creating space for connection, building confidence, and supporting change that lasts.

   
   

Free Digital Health Webinars for Rural Practitioners

Following engagement at Rural WONCA 2026, Health Informatics New Zealand (HiNZ) is offering a series of free educational webinars relevant to the health workforce, including those working in rural and remote settings.


Delivered alongside My Health Hub, these sessions cover key topics shaping digital health, including:

  • Shared Digital Health Records
  • Remote Patient Monitoring
  • Digital Resilience (upcoming in May – preparing for future emergencies)

All webinars are available on-demand, and participants can claim CPD/CME certificates after completion—making them a practical option for ongoing professional development.


As digital health becomes increasingly embedded in rural care delivery, these sessions offer useful insights to support safe, connected, and resilient services for rural communities.
   

Expression of Interest for SPARC (Procedural Sedation in a Rural Context) 

The University of Otago’s Centre for Rural Health is developing a new simulation-based course for rural practitioners of procedural sedation - SPARC (Simulated Procedural sedation and Analgesia in the Rural Context). This course is unique in that it offers simulation-based training in procedural sedation specifically for the rural context. 

 

The course will include independent online learning followed by an intensive simulation workshop spread over two half-days to allow travel to and from the course on the days it runs. This year the workshop will be at the Rural Health Academic Centre Ashburton with three choices of dates:

  • 24–25 August 2026
  • 12–13 October 2026
  • 3–4 December 2026

It will be at a level appropriate for those with existing experience of procedural sedation or for those newly developing these skills.  We are currently seeking Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from people interesting in attending.  If you are interested, please use the link below to submit your EOI.

   

Rural Research Opportunity – Share Your Expertise

Hauora Taiwhenua members are invited to contribute to an important international research study exploring the values that underpin rural and remote clinical practice.


Led by the Johns Hopkins Center for Indigenous Health in partnership with The Commonwealth Fund, this study aims to build consensus around three key concepts: clinical courage, clinical resilience, and professional generosity—with a strong focus on their role in delivering culturally safe care in Indigenous contexts.


The research is being led by Dr Faye McMillan (Wiradjuri Nation, Australia) and draws on global rural health expertise. Clinicians working in rural and remote settings are encouraged to take part.


What’s involved?
Participants will complete a series of short online surveys (10–20 minutes each), delivered over 3–4 rounds at times that suit you. Responses are anonymous, and findings will be shared in aggregate.


This is a valuable opportunity to help shape how rural clinical values are understood and applied internationally—particularly in Indigenous health contexts.

   

Funding round opens for research benefitting general practice 

The Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners supports research and education that benefits general practice, rural general practice and rural hospital medicine through three funding rounds each year.  

 

Applications are open for the second funding round of 2026.  

 

Applications are welcomed from anyone who is undertaking research in the above three fields. You do not have to be a doctor or a member of the College to apply. Grants are typically in the range of $5,000 - $20,000 for individual applications although up to $40,000 can be awarded.  

 

The College’s Research and Education Committee (REC) provides financial support to those conducting research or education projects and is looking for applications that reflect the guiding principles of our Strategic Plan 2025-2030:  

  • Rautaki Māori: Honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Advancing Hauora Māori, Māori leadership and partnership 
  • Delivery: Advocacy and influence, Education and training, Belonging and community, Sustainable operations and governance 
  • Equity: Tangata whenua, Pacific People, Rural communities 

Recent successful applications have included research on usage and equity of access to certain medications in Aotearoa, culturally safe mental health artificial intelligence (AI) tools for Māori and Pacific Peoples, the impact of ethnicity and rurality on diabetes management, migraine management and polypharmacy in Pacific communities. 

  

Applications close on Wednesday 3 June 2026 and will be considered by the College’s Research and Education Committee (REC).  

  

More information, including guidelines, an application form, and contact information for questions can be found online below:   

   

Return to Work guidelines for Elective surgery 

Kia ora koutou,

 

We are pleased to let you know about our new Return‑to‑Work Guidelines for elective surgery.

 

Developed in collaboration with the New Zealand Orthopaedic Association (NZOA), these evidence-based guidelines provide clear expectations for recovery and return to work following elective surgery. They were developed using international evidence and expert clinical opinion from NZOA specialty societies.

 

The guidelines are for specific surgeries, including:

  • anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction
  • ankle lateral ligament reconstruction
  • knee arthroscopy
  • lumbar discectomy
  • lumbar fusion
  • rotator cuff repair, or
  • total or partial knee replacement

 How to use the guidelines

The guidelines are intended to be used by surgeons to support their certification practices and their conversations with patients about their recovery to help them get back to work and independence sooner. These may also be useful for GPs and other certifying providers, employers and vocational providers supporting clients to return to work safely.

 

By following these guidelines, surgeons can help support an early and safe return to work, including return to work in a modified or graduated capacity where appropriate.

   

Have Your Say: Rural Emergency Care Research Priorities

Hauora Taiwhenua members are invited to contribute to a new trans-Tasman study focused on shaping the future of rural emergency care.


The Rural Research in Emergency Care Network (RRECN) has launched a Delphi study to identify key research priorities across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. This is an opportunity for those working across rural and remote emergency medicine, including telehealth and retrieval services, to help guide future research and investment in the sector.


What’s involved?
A short online survey (10–15 minutes) capturing your insights and experience in rural emergency care.

Your voice is critical in ensuring research reflects the realities and needs of rural communities and the workforce that supports them.


Take the survey here: 

   

Free LARC Train the Trainer Workshops Available in 2026

Health practitioners across Aotearoa are invited to take part in the LARC (Long-Acting Reversible Contraception) Train the Trainer course, delivered by New Zealand College of Sexual and Reproductive Health. This full-day workshop is being offered free of charge in 2026 to eligible clinicians. 


Designed to build capability and confidence, the course equips participants to train others in the provision of LARC, including contraceptive implants and intrauterine devices. It focuses on practical teaching methods, competency-based assessment, and best practice in more complex insertion and removal techniques. 

Workshops are scheduled in: 

  • Auckland (30 May) 
  • Christchurch (6 June) 
  • Auckland – RNZCGP Conference CME workshop (30 July) 
  • Wellington (29 November) 
  • Dunedin (date to be confirmed) 

Following the workshop, participants will complete a practical assignment to become accredited LARC trainers. 

   
   
   

Pae Ora – Healthy Futures: lessons learned from the first New Zealand Rural Health Strategy   

Leaning on Fence Posts

Delivering effective health care outside major cities is about far more than geography alone. This open‑access report reflects on the impact NZ's first Rural Health Strategy has had to date on our rural and remote health systems and draws out lessons for policy, commissioning, and service improvement.
   
   

If you have feedback for us or want to reach out to us regarding something, feel free to contact us via the details provided below.


Write an email to communications@htrhn.org.nz to get connected with our team.


   

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