I have recently returned from WONCA Lisbon, buoyed by the energy of our sector and energised to deliver the 21st WONCA World Rural Health Conference in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Our Call for Abstracts has now closed. Thank you to all who have submitted. The conference is a unique opportunity to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and forge connections that will strengthen our global rural community. The programme which will be published in December is looking excellent. You will be able to curate your conference experience selecting from over 200 presentations (academic, technical, research and practical). Attendees will be able to contribute to discussion groups, panels sessions, and workshop as well as visit medical sites across Wellington city.

Registration is open and you can book your accommodation, take advantage of travel discounts, request your letter of attendance, book a post-tour trip around New Zealand and learn more about the culture of New Zealand on this website. There are links to tourism, visa and travel information for your convenience.

We congratulate Dr Jo Scott-Jones on being selected as the John MacLeod Oration for 2026. The selection is a significant acknowledgment of Dr. Scott-Jones's contributions to rural health and places him among a distinguished list of past honorees, including Professor Ian Couper, Professor Roger Strasser, Dr John Wynn-Jones, Professor Bruce Chater, and Dr Dora Bernal.

On behalf of Hauora Taiwhenua and our Conference Committee, I am look forward to welcoming you to our shores.

Please watch our promotional video here.

Ngā mihi nui,

Dr Fiona Bolden
Chair - Hauora Taiwhenua & Chair - Host Organising Committee