Hauora Taiwhenua Rural Health Network

Hauora Taiwhenua Rural Health Network This is the official page for Hauora Taiwhenua Rural Health Network

Hauora Taiwhenua Rural Health Network is a collective organisation to advocate for the health and wellbeing of rural New Zealanders. Our history dates back 30 years to our beginning as the New Zealand Rural General Practice Network. Over that time, the Network has worked in partnership with other rural health groups including Rural Health Alliance Aotearoa New Zealand, Rural Nurses New Zealand, New Zealand Rural Hospital Network and Students of Rural Health Aotearoa to advocate for a better future for rural health. In 2022, the Network and its partners decided to come together as one collective organisation to advocate with a united voice for rural health. Hauora Taiwhenua offers membership to both organisations and individuals with an interest in rural health. We represent the breadth of the rural health sector and rural communities through our nine chapters. Our Chapters are:

Rural General Practice
Rural Nurses New Zealand
Rural Hospitals
Rural Midwifery and Maternity
Rural Communities
Rural Health Research and Education
Whānau Whanui
Rural Scientific, Technical and Allied health
Students of Rural Health Aotearoa

Wow! You brought your basket, and we brought ours — and what a bounty it has been.Over the past few days, we’ve shared k...
14/04/2026

Wow! You brought your basket, and we brought ours — and what a bounty it has been.

Over the past few days, we’ve shared knowledge, challenged thinking, and strengthened connections across Aotearoa and around the world. From powerful kōrero and standing ovations to moments of reflection, laughter, and learning — this has been a truly special gathering.

The message has been clear: to achieve better outcomes for rural communities, we must be willing to do things differently — together.

As we close, we carry forward new ideas, renewed energy, and a shared commitment to advancing rural health equity globally.

Haere rā, travel safely — and thank you for being part of Rural WONCA 2026.

13/04/2026

Pātea Māori Club! No words!

The most perfect end to our Conference here in Te Whanganui-a-Tara.

Aotearoa Icons!

12/04/2026

Thank you ! A pure reflection of the vibrancy of Pasifika culture.

The perfect start to Day 4, our final day here at Rural WONCA 2026!

A thoughtful and courageous oration from Dr Jo Scott Jones ended the third day of the 21st WONCA World Rural Health Conf...
12/04/2026

A thoughtful and courageous oration from Dr Jo Scott Jones ended the third day of the 21st WONCA World Rural Health Conference. He was the chosen speaker for the prestigious John McLeod oration, a tradition honouring one of the founding members of Rural WONCA.

Dr Scott Jones spoke honestly about his journey as a young GP coming from Liverpool in England to Ōpōtiki, a rural town in Aotearoa, on taking time to understand the people he serves, including the indigenous Te Whakatōhea community.

His wisdom and humility was on full show as he spoke about the the 'vomit' principle in advocacy (sharing a good idea over and over until you are sick of hearing yourself talk 🤮) and the very real link between spirituality and the body for the people he serves (and for all of us). He also shared one of his lowest moments working as a GP after the death of a young patient, in a moment

He ended by offering sound advice for younger GPs; make connections with the people around you, follows your passions and seek joy in your practice. Thank you Jo for your leadership, co-chairing the scientific committee of this fantastic meeting, for your persistence in advancing global rural health, and for your dedication to your community. 💜

12/04/2026

As we head into the final day of the 21st WONCA World Rural Health Conference, we asked delegates what one lesson, insight or learning they will take away from their time in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Did a particular keynote, session or workshop stick with you? What will you change about your clinical, community or advocacy work? Will it change HOW you think? Please share below it in the comments.

Legacy Panel | Creating an Enduring ImpactWhat will Rural WONCA 2026 leave behind?Join us for today’s Legacy Panel, expl...
12/04/2026

Legacy Panel | Creating an Enduring Impact

What will Rural WONCA 2026 leave behind?

Join us for today’s Legacy Panel, exploring how the learnings, connections, and insights from the conference can translate into lasting impact for rural communities across Aotearoa and beyond.

This session will focus on turning shared knowledge into meaningful action — strengthening systems, supporting the workforce, and continuing the momentum long after the conference closes.

Be part of the conversation shaping what comes next.

We are honoured to recognise Tania Chamberlain as the 2026 and inaugural recipient of the Rhoena Davis Wāhine Rangatirat...
12/04/2026

We are honoured to recognise Tania Chamberlain as the 2026 and inaugural recipient of the Rhoena Davis Wāhine Rangatiratanga Women in Rural Health Leadership Award.

Tania embodies mana wāhine leadership — bringing together strategic insight, cultural integrity, and deep commitment to whānau and community. Her leadership strengthens systems while upholding tikanga, and navigates change with clarity, courage, and humility.

Her mahi goes beyond service delivery — contributing to the restoration of trust, dignity, and opportunity in rural Aotearoa.

A powerful and deserving leader.

Acknowledging The University of Waikato and Rural Health Medical Training as Gold Sponsors of the Conference Dinner.

We are delighted to recognise Julia Jones as the 2026 recipient of the Te Waka Kotahitanga Award.As Workforce Lead Medic...
12/04/2026

We are delighted to recognise Julia Jones as the 2026 recipient of the Te Waka Kotahitanga Award.

As Workforce Lead Medical at Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora, Julia has played a pivotal role in shaping and strengthening Aotearoa’s health workforce — with a clear focus on improving access to care for rural communities.

Her collaborative leadership, deep system knowledge, and commitment to equity have supported meaningful progress across workforce development, training pathways, and primary care connections.

Julia’s work reflects the true spirit of kotahitanga — unity of purpose — and her impact continues to be felt across the rural health sector.

With appreciation to The University of Waikato and Rural Health Medical Training for their support as Gold Sponsors of the Conference Dinner.

We are proud to recognise Dr Peter Freeman as the 2026 recipient of the Peter Snow Memorial Award.Dr Freeman exemplifies...
12/04/2026

We are proud to recognise Dr Peter Freeman as the 2026 recipient of the Peter Snow Memorial Award.

Dr Freeman exemplifies the very best of rural health — going beyond his own practice to strengthen the entire system. Through his tireless, voluntary dedication, he has empowered rural teams, improved patient safety, and supported clinicians facing high-stakes emergencies far from tertiary care.

His work is grounded in evidence, driven by equity, and aligned with the vision of bringing care closer to home. The impact of his contribution is both measurable and enduring.

A truly deserving recipient.

Gratefully supported by The University of Waikato and Rural Health Medical Training, Gold Sponsors of the Conference Dinner.

What an incredible performance by Aotea College Kuki Airani to kick off Day 3!Energy, Pride, and Passion!Looking forward...
11/04/2026

What an incredible performance by Aotea College Kuki Airani to kick off Day 3!

Energy, Pride, and Passion!

Looking forward to all that follows here at Tākina!

Come on up to Level 2 and experience hauora Māori here at Rural WONCA 2026.Step into Ahi Kā — a dedicated space where mā...
11/04/2026

Come on up to Level 2 and experience hauora Māori here at Rural WONCA 2026.

Step into Ahi Kā — a dedicated space where mātauranga Māori, hauora Māori, and lived rural experience come together. The Te Ao Māori Hub offers a place to connect, reflect, and learn, inviting attendees to engage with Māori worldviews of health and wellbeing in a culturally grounded environment.

10/04/2026

What a truly inspiring and grounding welcome to Day 2 of Rural WONCA 2026 by Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Ngā Mokopuna!

Whakarongo the word of the day, the Māori word for listening!

Address

Level 2, 88 The Terrace
Wellington
6140

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm

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