Hauora Taiwhenua Rural Health Network

21/04/2026

Whare Tangata - A Living Artwork from Rural WONCA 2026

Many of you will remember the powerful live artwork created across the 21st WONCA World Rural Health Conference (Rural WONCA 2026) in Wellington, Aotearoa.

Titled Whare Tangata, this piece was brought to life by Christchurch-based artist Ellie Compton and Mobile Health Group.

Over three days, rural health professionals from around the world were invited to contribute a word, thought, or sketch reflecting their experiences of rural Hauora.

Each contribution was woven into the final piece. The result is a largescale visual tapestry capturing the collective voice of rural communities: their challenges, their resilience, and the deep sense of connection that binds people and place.

This artwork also carries the mana of Russell Riki, Kaumātua to Board and Chairperson, Dr Fiona Bolden at Hauora Taiwhenua Rural Health Network, who gifted its name during the conference’s closing ceremony. His contribution acknowledges the wairua, the stories, and the collective voice embedded within the piece.

Every thread connected. Every story honoured.

View and purchase the artwork here: https://zurl.co/UqaiH

16/04/2026

In this video, Dr Steven Fish, a GP in Waimate, shares how what began as a working holiday in New Zealand turned into a 16-year journey for him and his family.

For many rural clinicians, practising in Aotearoa offers the opportunity to work across a broad scope of medicine while becoming a valued part of the local community. It’s also a lifestyle that allows time for the things that matter outside the clinic — from cycling through stunning countryside to enjoying the mountains, lakes, and outdoor experiences that make rural New Zealand unique.

Stories like Dr Fish’s highlight the impact of attracting and retaining skilled clinicians in rural communities — strengthening healthcare access and helping ensure rural services remain sustainable for the people who rely on them.

15/04/2026

Hauora Taiwhenua Emerging Rural Educator Award — Dr Katelyn Costello

We are proud to recognise Dr Katelyn Costello as the recipient of the Hauora Taiwhenua Emerging Rural Educator Award.

Currently undertaking her PhD with the Centre of Rural Health at the University of Otago, Katelyn’s work is already shaping how we understand and grow Aotearoa’s rural medical workforce. Her research explores what influences medical students to choose rural careers — with early findings providing valuable insight for workforce planning, training pathways, and rural placement programmes.

Alongside this, Katelyn continues to support emerging researchers, contributing to a strong and sustainable future for rural health education.

An exciting and impactful contribution to rural health in Aotearoa.

15/04/2026

Hauora Taiwhenua Emerging Rural Researcher Award — Dr Stephen Ram

We are delighted to recognise Dr Stephen Ram as the recipient of the Hauora Taiwhenua Emerging Rural Researcher Award.

A clinician-researcher at the University of Waikato, Dr Ram’s work bridges the gap between rural health theory and the lived realities of rural communities. His research is not only academically rigorous, but actively used to advocate for and strengthen rural health services across Aotearoa.

His recent work on rural hospital contributions to community health highlights the vital role these services play — providing evidence that supports more equitable health outcomes for rural populations.

A powerful example of research driving real-world impact.

15/04/2026

14/04/2026

Relocating across the world to practise medicine isn’t a small decision — but for many clinicians, the opportunity to live and work in New Zealand makes it one of the most rewarding moves they can make.

In this video, Joe Browne, who moved from the United States, shares his experience of working in rural Aotearoa and what makes practising medicine here so unique.

From supportive healthcare teams to the ability to work across a broader scope of practice, rural medicine in New Zealand offers clinicians the chance to make a real impact while enjoying an exceptional work–life balance.

Joe’s journey highlights how international clinicians are helping strengthen healthcare access for rural communities across the motu.

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!

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.

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.