It is a real pleasure to share that the full programme for the 21st WONCA World Rural Health Conference is now live. With the programme finalised, you can begin shaping your visit to Wellington through the sessions you will move between, the conversations you will join, and the people you will meet.

We are thrilled to be welcoming a remarkable group of keynote speakers, including leaders from WONCA and, on our opening day, Sir Ashley Bloomfield and Sir Colin Tukuitonga, whose insights into public health and equity will set a powerful tone for the conference. Our political panel will also return, offering a valuable chance to hear directly from those shaping the future of health policy in New Zealand.

Registration is open, and as you plan your time with us I encourage you to explore the range of Social Events, as well as options such as the Whānau Pass and Wellness Pass, all designed to help you make the most of your week in New Zealand.

If you are coming down-under for the first time, take advantage of our Post-Conference Tours of New Zealand. These tours are hosted by an experienced travel guide and will provide a unique experience to visit rural, regional and urban New Zealand towns and cities. Visit tourist attractions, walk lush bush trails, soak in hot mud, and meet local rural medical teams. The tours have been designed to make it easy for you. It’s a bucket-list tick.

If you need a letter of invitation to support your visa application, please click here to view the process.

A reminder, that the WONCA scholarships are open. Click here to read more or follow our socials.

Please watch our promotional video here.

Ngā mihi nui,

Dr Fiona Bolden
Chair, Hauora Taiwhenua Rural Health Network & Chair, Host Organising Committee

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Important scam alert - accommodation and travel emails
We are aware of scam emails being sent to conference presenters and participants, falsely claiming to offer accommodation or travel arrangements for Rural WONCA 2026. Please note:

• Rural WONCA 2026 does not use third-party travel agents to contact attendees.
• Any email requesting your travel dates, payment details, or accommodation confirmation did not come from the conference unless it is from an official Rural WONCA / Conference Organiser email address.
• If you receive a suspicious email, do not reply, click links, or provide any personal or payment information.
• We recommend reporting these messages using “Report Phishing” in your email provider and then deleting them.
• For accurate and up-to-date information, please refer only to the official conference website or communications sent directly by the Rural WONCA 2026 Conference Team.
• If you are unsure about a message you have received, please contact us via the official conference contact details listed here.