Celebrating 30 Years of Connection: Conference Innovators and Their Ongoing Commitment to Rural Health

This year, Conference Innovators (CI) marks a major milestone—30 years of producing and delivering world-class events across Aotearoa and beyond. Among their many partnerships, their long-standing relationship with the National Rural Health Conference (NRHC) holds special meaning for both teams.

For Rachel Cook, Director at CI, this anniversary is a chance to reflect on the company’s purpose and passion.

“Facilitating meaningful connections and curating opportunities for engagement is pivotal to all events and remains paramount to our purpose,” says Rachel.

“I feel privileged every day to be entrusted with uniting people through exceptional events – I’m proud of our journey, our continuing growth as a company and our dedicated team.”

At the heart of CI’s work is a simple but powerful idea: bringing people together. Over the past three decades, that purpose has remained their anchor, even through evolving challenges. This clarity of vision has allowed them to continually exceed expectations—and they’re not done yet.

CI has played a foundational role in the rural health space, first delivering the NZ Rural GP Network Conference in 1997—now the National Rural Health Conference hosted by Hauora Taiwhenua.

“The event is so rewarding and that is down to one thing – the people,” says Rachel. “The team at Hauora Taiwhenua are brilliant to work with and the rural health professionals that attend are warm, genuine, and passionate. There’s a lovely energy that makes it such a joy to be part of.”

It’s a relationship built on shared values and mutual respect, with both organisations deeply invested in creating meaningful, community-focused experiences.

Next, CI will help deliver the 21st WONCA World Rural Health Conference, to be hosted in Wellington in 2026—a major international event that’s set to shine a spotlight on rural health in Aotearoa.

“It goes without saying that we’re more than a little excited,” says Rachel. “This global event empowers rural health practitioners and highlights the mana of our healthcare community. Being part of bringing this once-in-a-lifetime event to NZ alongside Hauora Taiwhenua is a privilege.”

For CI, it’s a challenge that comes with huge purpose—and one they are ready to meet head on.

While attendees see the polished outcome, much of CI’s work happens quietly behind the scenes. From travel logistics and visa processes to cultural considerations and onsite hospitality, every detail is meticulously planned.

“Ensuring overseas attendees are welcomed and hosted requires attention to every small detail,” Rachel explains. “For us, it’s all about practicing Manaakitanga—showcasing the best of Aotearoa’s culture, cuisine, and people through warm Kiwi hospitality.”

Whether for local gatherings or global forums, CI’s dedication to connection and quality continues to shape the experiences of thousands.

As we prepare for the next National Rural Health Conference and look toward WONCA 2026, we’re proud to have Conference Innovators walking alongside us—celebrating milestones, building community, and delivering excellence every step of the way.