21st WONCA World Rural Health Conference - New Zealand

Introducing the 21st WONCA World Rural Health Conference in New Zealand, April 10th – 13th, 2026

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

Kia ora! Hello!

In ten months the 21st WONCA World Rural Health Conference will be held in the capital city of Aotearoa New Zealand, Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington.

As hosts of the 21st WONCA World Rural Health Conference 2026, we are looking forward to welcoming you to our country. The conference promises to be a landmark gathering for health professionals, researchers, indigenous leaders, students and rural communities from around the globe—and in particular for those from New Zealand.

Over four days the conference will present keynotes, panel discussions, concurrent sessions, workshops, videos and posters along with social occasions showcasing the best of New Zealand culture and cuisine.

Partners and families travelling with attendees will be able to take advantage of a curated selection of activities in and around Wellington city, and our post-conference tours will take you on a road trip like no other. The conference website is live, providing everything you need to know about the event, including travel information and discounts from major airlines.

Conference theme and abstract submissions

The call for abstracts is now open. Our conference theme—“Whānau Ora: Integrating Mātauranga Māori, Indigenous Knowledge with Rural Health for a Thriving Future”—provides a strong foundation for important conversations about blending traditional indigenous knowledge with modern healthcare practices to create a holistic and sustainable approach to rural health.

There are six sub-themes reflecting the broad and integrated nature of rural health care:

• Promoting Equitable Rural Health Care: Ensuring all rural populations have access to high-quality healthcare services.
• Expanding Knowledge and Research: Growing the body of research that supports rural health and integrated healthcare systems.
• Rural Health Resourcing: Addressing funding, recruitment, training, and retention of healthcare professionals in rural areas.
• Effective Practices and Innovations: Showcasing successful practices and innovations in rural healthcare and wellness.
• Harnessing Technology: Utilizing artificial intelligence and virtual technology to support rural health.
• Enhancing Rural Generalism: Strengthening the role of rural generalists across healthcare professions to build more effective rural health teams.

What’s next?

The conference will feature a lineup of keynote speakers who are leaders in their fields. These experts will share insights and experiences, providing valuable perspectives on the future of rural health. You can expect to hear from representatives of WONCA, WHO, New Zealand’s Ministry of Health, and other thought leaders and changemakers.

In our next update, we will share more information about our keynote speakers. For now, you can submit your abstract, register for the conference, and start planning your trip to New Zealand!

We look forward to welcoming you.

Nga mihi | Kind regards,
Fiona

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