Hauora Taiwhenua Rural Health Network

09/03/2026

Otago Community Trust Sponsorship - Apply Now

We are delighted to announce that Otago Community Trust is sponsoring 12 rural health professionals from the Otago region to attend the 21st WONCA World Rural Health Conference.

Successful applicants can receive up to NZD $1,500 (incl. GST) to support registration, accommodation, and travel costs.

To be eligible, applicants must:
- Work or volunteer in the health sector within the Otago Community Trust region
- Demonstrate how attending the conference will benefit their communities
- Submit a post-conference report to the Trust
- Provide receipts for eligible expenses

This is an excellent opportunity to connect with national and international rural health leaders and bring valuable insights back to your community.

Apply now: https://zurl.co/VBXbk

08/03/2026

PHARMAC decision strengthens rural emergency care

PHARMAC’s February 2026 decision to fund additional medicines for use in community settings marks a practical step forward for rural urgent care.

Clinical Director Rural Health, Dr Rebekah Doran, says expanded access to methoxyflurane, IV tranexamic acid and ketamine will strengthen emergency and palliative care closer to home — particularly where transfer times are long.

From a frontline perspective, Raglan GP Dr Mike Loten notes the decision removes the financial burden on practices that were previously subsidising these medicines themselves.

Together, both say it’s progress — and a reminder that rural services must remain central to national funding decisions.

Read the full article here: https://zurl.co/j3YS9

06/03/2026

We’re pleased to welcome Mark Bryan as a guest speaker at the 21st WONCA World Rural Health Conference.

A rural veterinarian with over 35 years’ experience, Mark brings a powerful One Health perspective connecting animal, environmental, and human wellbeing in rural communities.

Register now: https://zurl.co/k39tu

06/03/2026

Ā Tātou Kōrero - Our Stories

The latest Hauora Taiwhenua Newsletter is now available, bringing together voices, stories, and updates from across our rural health network.

Explore the work, people, and initiatives shaping rural health in Aotearoa.

Read the newsletter: https://zurl.co/apDG9

03/03/2026

38 Questions with a Rural Hospital Medicine Specialist

Curious about life as a rural hospital doctor? Dr Ralston D’Souza answers 38 questions on everything from daily routines and clinical challenges to what keeps him motivated in rural practice.

This candid and insightful video offers a personal look at the realities, rewards, and reflections of rural hospital medicine — perfect for anyone interested in rural care or considering a similar path.

Watch now: https://zurl.co/dc0JC

New Life, New Adventure, New Zealand We spent time with Dr Ralston D'Souza to ask him 38 questions about working as a Rural Hospital Medicine Specialist and ...

02/03/2026

We’re delighted to welcome John Macaskill-Smith as a guest speaker at the 21st WONCA World Rural Health Conference.

As CEO of Spark Health, John brings deep expertise in digital health, primary care innovation, and system transformation across New Zealand and internationally.

Register now: https://zurl.co/CWdqt

02/03/2026

Join us for the third in our WONCA Rural 2026 Pre-Conference Webinar Series!

Date: Wednesday 11th March, 6PM
Platform: Online (registration required)

Description:
Explore how rurality, indigeneity, and socioeconomic deprivation intersect to impact health outcomes. Hear from leading researchers and practitioners on innovative models and research addressing inequities for Māori, Pacific, and other rural populations.

Who should attend?
Rural health professionals, researchers, policymakers, students, and anyone interested in health equity.

Register now: https://zurl.co/DnuZ9
Learn more about the WONCA Rural 2026 Conference: https://zurl.co/UnHyE

28/02/2026

1 Day to Go — Applications Close Today

This is your final opportunity to apply for the Rural WONCA FLIGHT Grant & Rural Ambassador Program.

Step into rural practice.
Strengthen your leadership.
Be part of the Rural WONCA journey.

Apply before the deadline today: https://zurl.co/pFfm4

27/02/2026

We are honoured to welcome Professor Sir Collin Tukuitonga as a keynote speaker at the 21st WONCA World Rural Health Conference.

A globally respected voice in public and Indigenous health, Sir Collin brings unmatched insight into equity and systems change.

Register now: https://zurl.co/qTGHm

27/02/2026

2 Days to Go

Future rural health leaders — this is your call.

Gain real-world experience at Hauora Hokianga or Kaikōura Health and share your learnings on the global stage.

Apply by 28 February.
https://zurl.co/9TISF

26/02/2026

3 Days to Go

Hands-on rural placement.
USD $1,000 support.
Present at the conference.

Applications close 28 February.
https://zurl.co/j2ep3

25/02/2026

4 Days to Go

The Rural WONCA FLIGHT Grant & Rural Ambassador Program closes soon.

If you’re a medical student or young family doctor ready to experience rural health in action — this is your opportunity.

Apply by 28 February.
https://zurl.co/ZkGOk