The countdown is well and truly on - we are now in the last weeks welcoming the global rural health community to Wellington.

There’s a real sense of momentum building now. We’re expecting over 800 attendees and more than 300 presenters, alongside panels, workshops, posters, video sessions, and a vibrant exhibition space supported by our sponsors and partners.

I would like to take a moment to sincerely thank our exhibitors from Aotearoa New Zealand and Australia, who will be sharing innovations, products, and services designed with rural communities in mind. I also extend my thanks to our sponsors—your support has been critical in ensuring the conference remains accessible to our rural workforce. You can explore the full list on our sponsors and exhibitors pages.

Our panel sessions will be a highlight, bringing together voices from across the sector to explore some of the most pressing issues facing rural health. In particular, our political panel — How future New Zealand Governments will enact the Rural Health Strategy to remove health inequities in rural communities — will focus on how future governments will deliver on the Rural Health Strategy and address inequities in our rural communities. It’s a timely and important conversation.

If you’re still considering whether to attend - I’d encourage you to take another look.

Beyond the highlights above, there are chapter meetings, concurrent sessions, hands-on workshops, research visits, and opportunities to explore Wellington with the Whānau Pass. You can find all the details, including how to register, here on our website.

I’m really looking forward to welcoming you all to Wellington very soon - to connect, to learn, and to share in what I know will be a memorable few days.

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.