National PRIME Committee

Firstly, our congratulations to the Rural Communities Chapter in celebrating the 10th year of RuralFest! This “working day” at parliament continues to hit the mark providing a platform for rigorous conversations and action. On the 20th of April our rural community leaders presented to members of parliament through a structured day of speeches, Q and A, workshops and networking. A well-timed event with the 2026 Election this year and the parties on the road and in the media sharing their vision for health.

Rural health leaders are calling for urgent and coordinated action to address what they describe as serious, measurable, and preventable inequities facing rural communities across Aotearoa New Zealand. Released following the 21st WONCA World Rural Health Conference at Tākina Wellington, the Aotearoa New Zealand Declaration on Rural Health 2026 sets out a national framework for improving rural health outcomes and strengthening rural healthcare systems.

Following PHARMAC’s decision to fund additional medicines for use in community settings, including treatments for trauma and medical emergencies, and ketamine for palliative care - Hauora Taiwhenua says the change will materially strengthen urgent care in rural Aotearoa. For Clinical Director Rural Health, Dr Rebekah Doran, the announcement reflects both clinical necessity and sustained rural advocacy.