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Media Release
30 July 2026
Hauora Taiwhenua Rural Health Network has welcomed today’s Government announcement of new investments to strengthen New Zealand’s rural health workforce, describing the package as a significant first step towards addressing long-standing priorities consistently raised by rural communities and clinicians.
The Government today announced new funding for Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) training, expanded access to Primary Response in Medical Emergencies (PRIME) training, and a refreshed National Rural Recruitment and Locum Support Service.
Chief Executive Dr Grant Davidson said the announcement demonstrates the value of sustained advocacy and constructive engagement with Government on behalf of rural health professionals and communities.
“For many years we have consistently advocated that improving rural health outcomes requires investment in the people delivering care. Today’s announcement recognises that rural clinicians need the right training, support and workforce solutions if we are to provide equitable healthcare for rural New Zealanders.”
Hauora Taiwhenua also acknowledged the Government’s continued investment in the National Rural Recruitment and Locum Support Service. Through its NZMedJobs and NZLocums workforce recruitment services, the organisation has supported rural practices for more than 20 years by recruiting permanent clinicians and providing essential locum support to some of New Zealand’s hardest-to-staff communities.
“Workforce recruitment and retention remain among the greatest challenges facing rural health providers. Expanding the service to include registered nurses and allied health professionals recognises the multidisciplinary nature of modern rural healthcare and will help build more sustainable teams,” said Dr Davidson.
Another priority advocacy issue for Hauora Taiwhenua has been increased access to diagnostics closer to rural communities. Dr Fiona Bolden, Hauora Taiwhenua Chairperson, said the investment in POCUS training will provide rural clinicians with greater capability to assess and manage patients locally.
“Rural clinicians regularly make complex decisions with limited resources. Access to trained use of Point-of-Care Ultrasound supports faster diagnosis, more informed clinical decision-making, and, where appropriate, allows more patients to receive care closer to home while reducing unnecessary travel.”
The removal of financial barriers to PRIME training is a long-sought investment in rural workforce enablement.
“Our members have repeatedly highlighted the importance of PRIME training, particularly in communities where emergency response times can be longer. Removing the personal cost of training is a practical step that will strengthen emergency care capability across rural New Zealand,” Dr Bolden said.
While welcoming the announcement, Dr Davidson said it should be viewed as part of a broader programme of investment needed to address longstanding inequities experienced by rural communities.
“Today’s announcement is a positive step forward, and we acknowledge Minister Doocey and the Government for listening to the rural health sector.”
“However, there is still more work to do. Rural health services continue to face workforce shortages, funding inequities and increasing demand. We look forward to continuing to work alongside Government, Health New Zealand and our sector partners to ensure rural communities receive the healthcare they deserve.”
Hauora Taiwhenua will continue advocating for the priorities identified by rural communities, including equitable funding, rural-proofed health policy, targeted IT/technology investment, sustainable workforce pipelines and stronger support for rural providers.
ENDS
Media Contact Sajan Patel Communications Coordinator 021 472 556 sajan.patel@htrhn.org.nz
