The successful conference bid was led by Hauora Taiwhenua Rural Health Network with support from its Te Tiriti partners Te Rōpū Ārahi. Effective advocacy from Business Events Wellington (BEW) and Tourism New Zealand Business Events, and endorsement from the New Zealand health sector and government ministries, led to a winning proposal.
Hauora Taiwhenua’s bid was chosen over strong international competition, thanks to its focus on indigenous health frameworks, community-led health initiatives, and New Zealand’s demonstrated commitment to rural health equity. The international selection committee was particularly impressed by the focus on New Zealand’s innovative approaches to integrating Māori health models within its healthcare system.
Fiona Bolden, from Hauora Taiwhenua, says: “We will be working closely with our rural Māori members and health colleagues to share our success stories and extend this opportunity to our rural health peers across the South Pacific and other first nations peoples around the world, to join these conversations and learning opportunities; it’s about fostering global conversations that drive equity and inclusivity in healthcare systems worldwide.”
The relevance of this conference to New Zealand has never been greater, Bolden says, with increasing recognition of health disparities and the urgent need for culturally responsive care. The country’s commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles and the UN Sustainable Development Goals will provide robust conversations on shared learnings.
Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital, was selected for its dynamic blend of cultural diversity, strong health sector partnerships, and its status as the political and healthcare hub of the country.
Tourism New Zealand Global Manager Business Events Penelope Ryan says: “Welcoming the Rural WONCA Conference not only brings valuable thought leadership in healthcare to New Zealand, it supports year-round tourism by bringing international visitors to our shores in April, after our peak summer season.”
The conference is expected to deliver an economic impact of $2.7m to Wellington.
