NOMINATIONS ARE NOW OPEN FOR THE INAUGURAL RHOENA DAVIS WĀHINE RANGATIRA WOMEN IN RURAL HEALTH LEADERSHIP AWARD FOR 2026

This award commemorates the life and legacy of Rhoena Davis, an inspirational leader in Māori health who passed away in 2024. Rhoena’s tireless advocacy for whānau wellbeing, her commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles, and her leadership in rural health reform have left an enduring mark on the health sector. The award will carry her name as a tribute to her extraordinary contributions and as an inspiration for future leaders.

The award is designed to acknowledge women who have made or who are making a profound impact on health equity, strengthened rural health systems, and inspired future generations of leaders. It will serve as a platform to elevate voices that champion collaboration, cultural safety, and innovation in health delivery.

Nominations for the 2026 award are now open. This is an opportunity to recognise and celebrate wāhine who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to improving health outcomes across Aotearoa New Zealand.

Selection Criteria

The award will honour contributions in areas such as community engagement, rural health, inspirational leadership, and the embodiment of Māori values—Kotahitanga (unity), Manaakitanga (care and respect), and Rangatiratanga (self-determination).

To recognise and celebrate wāhine who demonstrate outstanding leadership and commitment to improving health outcomes in Aotearoa, with a focus on community engagement, rural health, and te ao Māori values.

Submit a nomination

Submit your nomination application here

To nominate an individual for this award, you must submit an online application form.

If you would like to include an additional letter of recommendation or support in your application, please email this to communications@htrhn.org.nz.

Nominations will be reviewed by the Hauora Taiwhenua Rural Health Network Board.

The panel reserves the right not to offer the award if it deems that applications do not fulfil the selection criteria for the award, however HTRHN executive members will encourage the nomination of peers.  In the event that no nominees are received, then the HTRHN executive may make nominations.

Announcement and presentation of the award

The Award will be launched at our 2026 Conference, 21^st WONCA World Rural Health Conference incorporating the National Rural Health Conference.  The Award will be presented annually at our Conference.

It will also be announced in the HTRHN newsletter and on our website.