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21st WONCA World Rural Health Conference, 10-13 April 2026: Read More – WONCA 2026 | Home

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Minister Doocey’s Rural Roadshow

Hon Matt Doocey, Associate Health Minister with responsibility for Rural Health and Minister for Mental Health, will be coming to rural communities in New Zealand to hear about local health care services and how the Government can better support communities and people working in rural health.

Rural Health Roadshow to hear from rural communities

Associate Health Minister with responsibility for Rural Health and Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey announced today he will be coming to 12 rural locations across the country on a Rural Health Roadshow, starting this week in Levin. “All New Zealanders deserve timely access to quality health care and this Government is committed to improving health and mental health outcomes, particularly for the one in five living in our rural communities,” Mr Doocey says.

Ka Ora Telecare: Strengthening Rural Healthcare Through Partnership

At the heart of rural healthcare is collaboration—bringing together expertise, resources, and innovative solutions to ensure that no community is left behind. That’s why Ka Ora Telecare is proud to partner with Hauora Taiwhenua as a Sponsor for the National Rural Health Conference 2025 – supporting the theme Empowering for equity – moving towards equity.

Mobile Health Group – Investing in the Future of Rural Healthcare

A thriving rural healthcare system isn’t just about today’s workforce-it’s about investing in the next generation of health professionals. At this year’s National Rural Health Conference, the Rural Health Student Hub will serve as a dedicated space for students to connect, learn, and be inspired. This initiative is made possible through the generous sponsorship of Mobile Health Group, an organisation deeply committed to strengthening rural health services across Aotearoa.

A Lifelong Dedication to Rural Health – Jo’s Journey and Advocacy

For over three decades, Jo has dedicated his life to serving the Ōpōtiki community, having built a deep connection with rural healthcare that has shaped his entire career. From the moment he stepped into rural New Zealand, Jo found himself in the heart of a community that needed him. His story reflects a commitment to improving healthcare in high-needs rural areas, and his work continues to inspire others in the field. This article traces Jo’s journey from his early days in medicine to his current advocacy for rural healthcare.

Rural Communities: Farewell to a Leader – Sandra Matthews’ Contribution to Rural Wellbeing

The Rural Communities Chapter of Hauora Taiwhenua would like to extend our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Sandra Matthews for her outstanding contributions as the Health Portfolio Convenor for Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ). While Sandra steps down from this role to focus on her new position as National President of RWNZ, we acknowledge and celebrate the dedication, leadership, and advocacy she has shown in supporting rural health.

The Rural Communities Chapter of Hauora Taiwhenua would like to extend our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Sandra Matthews for her outstanding contributions as the Health Portfolio Convenor for Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ). While Sandra steps down from this role to focus on her new position as National President of RWNZ, we acknowledge and celebrate the dedication, leadership, and advocacy she has shown in supporting rural health.

Sandra has been a tireless champion for rural communities, ensuring that the voices of rural women and their families are heard in the ongoing discussions about equitable healthcare access. Her leadership has been instrumental in addressing the unique challenges faced by rural New Zealanders, from geographic isolation and limited healthcare services to broader social and economic factors affecting rural wellbeing.

Beyond her work in health, Sandra’s governance experience has been extensive. Alongside her husband Ian, she runs Te Kopae Station, a 536-hectare sheep and beef farm in Tairāwhiti. She has served as Chair of the RWNZ Board, Chair of the Rural Communities Trust, and a Trustee for Endometriosis New Zealand, among many other leadership roles. Her commitment to empowering rural women and strengthening the primary sector has left a lasting legacy, and we are deeply grateful for her contributions.

In a message to the Rural Communities Chapter, Sandra expressed her gratitude for the collaboration and learning over the past three years. She assured members that she will continue to support the great work being done through Bronwyn Main, who will be stepping into the role of Health Portfolio Convenor.

We warmly welcome Bronwyn Main, an RWNZ Board member based in Waikato, as she takes on this important role. With her strong commitment to advocating for equitable health services and her deep understanding of rural life, Bronwyn is well-positioned to build on Sandra’s work and continue to be a strong voice for rural health.

On behalf of Hauora Taiwhenua’s Rural Communities Chapter, we thank Sandra for her remarkable service and congratulate her on her new role as National President of RWNZ. We look forward to continuing our work together to support rural communities and ensure their healthcare needs remain a priority.