Open Now! Hauora Taiwhenua Rural Secondary School Leavers Health Career Scholarships 2026

Hauora Taiwhenua Rural Health Network is pleased to open applications for the 2026 Rural New Zealand Health Scholarships, in association with Mobile Health Group, Waitaha Primary Health and the Townshend-Thomas Charitable Community Trust, providing financial support for rural students embarking on health studies in 2027.

This year, we are offering five scholarships valued at $5,000 each to support rural youth entering their first year of full-time undergraduate study in nursing, medicine, or allied health in 2027 across New Zealand universities, polytechnics, or private training establishments (PTEs). In addition, we are delighted to feature a dedicated scholarship specifically for a student graduating from Hauraki Plains College, proudly funded by the Townshend-Thomas Charitable Community Trust.

Addressing workforce shortages across rural medicine, nursing, and allied health requires a multi-faceted approach. While international recruitment and national workforce initiatives play a key role, providing financial backing to rural students who are passionate about health careers is a vital piece of the puzzle. The initiative aims to reduce barriers and foster long-term investment in the rural health workforce, with a focus on encouraging students to return and serve their communities.

We know that taking the leap into tertiary education often comes with additional costs for rural youth. Moving away from home means navigating significant travel, relocation, and living expenses on top of course fees.

Our joint scholarship initiative is designed to help ease that initial financial transition. By reducing those first-year barriers, we hope to encourage ambitious rural students to pursue their health career aspirations and build a strong foundation for their future in the health sector.

The closing date for applications is 27 November 2026. For more information on how to apply and the eligibility criteria, see the scholarship information and guidelines here.