Rural health leaders gather in Wellington

Held at Tākina Wellington Convention & Exhibition Centre from 10 to 13 April 2026, the event brought together health professionals, researchers, Indigenous leaders, policymakers, and rural communities to share ideas and shape the future of rural healthcare.

Hosted by Hauora Taiwhenua Rural Health Network and its Te Tiriti partner Te Rōpū Ārahi, the conference showcased Aotearoa New Zealand's leadership in rural health and community-led healthcare. The conference theme, Whānau Ora: Integrating mātauranga Māori Indigenous knowledge with rural health for a thriving future, placed Māori perspectives at the centre of the programme. 

Delegates were welcomed with a pōwhiri led by Te Āti Awa, while keynote presentations, workshops, and panel discussions explored how Indigenous knowledge can contribute to better health outcomes. A dedicated workshop helped advance the World Health Organization Global Plan of Action on the Health of Indigenous Peoples, while women leaders, Indigenous health experts, and emerging rural health professionals featured prominently throughout the programme.

Wellington's role as New Zealand's capital city created unique opportunities for delegates to engage directly with policymakers and decision-makers. The compact city centre also encouraged networking, with delegates easily moving between Tākina, accommodation, restaurants, and social events. “Hosting the conference in Wellington, the capital of Aotearoa New Zealand, gave us visibility, strengthening our role as an advisory organisation to government and its agencies,” says Hauora Taiwhenua chief executive Dr Grant Davidson.

The conference also invested in the future of rural healthcare, creating opportunities for students, young practitioners, and early career researchers to build international connections and share ideas with leaders in the field. Its impact extended well beyond the four-day programme. A major outcome was the launch of the Aotearoa New Zealand Declaration on Rural Health 2026, a roadmap identifying six priority areas to strengthen rural health systems, improve access to care, and support a sustainable rural workforce.

Delegates also witnessed the launch of Global Rural Health Action, Collaboration and Excellence (GRACE), an international initiative focused on improving rural health outcomes through collaboration, advocacy, and practical action. “The Declaration sets out what needs to happen next. This is the legacy of the conference for rural communities,” says Hauora Taiwhenua chair Dr Fiona Bolden. Together, these initiatives reinforced Wellington's reputation as a city where global experts connect, new ideas emerge, and lasting outcomes are created.