Earlybird registration for Rural WONCA 2026 has now closed, and we are delighted by the strong response from across the global rural health community. With the programme live and registrations continuing, this is the perfect time to finalise your plans and start shaping your conference experience in Wellington.

We are pleased to offer two special post-conference tours designed exclusively for conference attendees and their companions. One tour will explore the North Island and the other the South Island, each providing a unique opportunity to experience Aotearoa New Zealand beyond the conference venue. These journeys will take you into rural communities across the country, where you will meet local health professionals, visit regional hospitals and practices, and gain first-hand insight into how healthcare is delivered in diverse rural and remote settings.

We are also delighted to welcome Dr Viviana Martinez-Bianchi, President of WONCA, and Dr Pratyush Kumar, Chair of Rural WONCA, to the conference. Their leadership and advocacy for primary care and rural health globally will be a highlight of the programme. As Dr Martinez-Bianchi shared, “I am excited to come to New Zealand to be with rural family doctors and health professionals who understand the power of community-based care. Rural WONCA 2026 is an opportunity to listen, learn, and strengthen our shared commitment to rural health.”

One of our keynote speakers, Theadora Swift Koller, will also bring a powerful international perspective to the conference. With her extensive experience in global health and health system leadership, her address will explore themes highly relevant to rural communities worldwide.

To mark Rural WONCA 2026, exclusive conference merchandise is now available. Limited-edition caps and t-shirts can be pre-ordered online and collected at the conference, offering a practical keepsake and a way to celebrate being part of this global gathering in Aotearoa New Zealand.

We look forward to welcoming you to Wellington for what promises to be an inspiring and memorable conference.

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.