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Published: 1 October, 2020

and Pacific communities. People told us: Support starts and continues with people and communities, not services. The former Mental Health Commissioner’s framework was viewed as being too narrow but was something that could be refined and built upon. The voices of Māori and tāngata whaiora are crucial

Published: 22 May, 2026

mental health as part of the same story, not two separate ones. Recognising that connection means designing climate policy and planning with young people, not just for them, and making sure support, community connection, and a sense of agency for our rangatahi are integral to the way Aotearoa New Zealand responds.

Published: 14 June, 2021

difference through small actions every day. One of the challenges we have, as a Commission and a mental health and wellbeing sector, is to balance long-term transformation with meeting critical needs for support and services right now, particularly for our children and young people,” says Karen Orsborn

Published: February 2026

independent monitoring shows the programme has substantially increased access to and choice in support services and substantially increased access for people seeking help with mild to moderate mental health, addiction, and wellbeing needs. While the programme represents a good investment in the mental

Published: 10 July, 2023

see the new mental health law based on supported decision making, and embedding Te Tiriti o Waitangi and a Te Ao Māori worldview. Practices that need to change now under the current Mental Health Act 1992: We want to see a reduction in the number of applications and outcomes granted for CCTOs, and

Published: August 2025

from July 2025 brings a sharper focus on people who experience mental distress or addiction, improving the services and supports they need. Our approach will be guided by three key shifts: a much clearer focus on people with lived experience of mental distress or addiction, using our knowledge and

Published: 10 July, 2023

law is re-written we expect it to be in line with Te Tiriti o Waitangi, human rights and best practice so people are supported to make decisions about their treatment. Because the new law won’t come into force for several years, we need changes to cultural and other practices to be made now,” Mr Wano said.  Read the report  

Published: 30 November, 2022

Hayden Wano. “These reports provide us with an opportunity to see where progress is being made, not only in access to services but also in having the opportunity to have genuine service choice. There are more services and capacity in previously under-supported areas, growth in Kaupapa Māori services

Published: 11 June, 2025

lived and living experience Prioritises effective services for tāngata whaiora with highest need Provides effective primary prevention and early interventions Ensures accessible and effective services Upholds human rights-based practices Is supported by a workforce with the capability, competencies and

Published: January 2026

and equitable mental health and wellbeing outcomes. He Ara Āwhina (Pathways to Support) Monitoring framework provides the foundation for this work. She leads relationships across the health and community sectors at all levels, working collaboratively with tāngata whaiora, those with lived