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Published: 29 May, 2025

in 2019/20 to 8.6% in 2023/24. “A reported surge in methamphetamine use in the last year is likely to put further pressure on services. At a time that we need to be bolstering services, we’re seeing fewer people access addiction services.”   “Another sign that the system is under pressure

Published: 29 August, 2023

distress and addiction. Following a co-design and consultation process, the Board of the Initial Commission adopted a suite of conceptual outcomes that describe both te ao Maori and shared wellbeing perspectives. How was the framework developed? The framework was informed by: What we heard in the co

Published: 19 April, 2024

health distress or addiction (or both) and those who support them, including whānau. [BB2]  We agree with the proposed content of the strategy, with the addition of further clarification on the wellbeing and workforce aspects of the strategy. By adding workforce we will ensure consistency with

Published: January 2026

quality, and strengthening systemic accountability. Professor Sunny Collings, Board member Sunny has been Chief Executive of the Health Research Council since February 2020, following nine years as Dean and Head of Campus at the University of Otago Wellington. A University of Otago graduate, Sunny has a

Published: 15 April, 2026

and for those communities.  “We also need to see stronger action to address the underlying drivers of mental distress, particularly for young people, where demand and unmet need continue to grow. To support meaningful engagement, Te Hiringa Mahara has released advice to help New Zealanders make

Published: 24 November, 2022

bleak futures; social media and safety online; racism and discrimination; and intergenerational connection and whānau support. In the coming months we will be publishing the findings of these consultations as well as working with these communities to influence those government agencies who control

Published: 5 November, 2025

doesn’t always work well, particularly for Māori, young people or those living rurally, so this needs to remain a real focus.” "The funding boost announced today is very positive. This will make a significant difference. It is going to take sustained leadership and collaboration to put in place much needed improvements to support people in crisis."

Published: 1 December, 2022

understanding of the pandemic, and our planning for the future – both responding to crises and supporting wider wellbeing – recognises that older people are not one monolithic group. We call for greater involvement of older people in decision-making that affects them, greater understanding of and

Published: 7 August, 2025

those challenges. This helped shape the key shifts we need to make as an organisation to fulfil our legislative mandate. Following extensive discussion around the board table it was agreed the vision and mission should remain unchanged, with three strategic priorities adopted. The shifts in our

Published: 25 June, 2026

Board member Dr Kelly Feng MNZM, Chief Executive for Asian Family Services, has trained in medicine and social work. Dr Feng has extensive experience in the mental health and addiction field since migrating from China to Aotearoa New Zealand in 2002.  She has been appointed on a five-year term