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.

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.