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Published: February 2026

health of New Zealanders and has come a long way in a difficult environment over the last five years, we believe concerted efforts are needed to expand its reach further. The programme provides tailored services for rangatahi and young people, Māori, and Pacific peoples – aligned with the higher

Published: 4 November, 2025

system either supports someone or fails them. It’s that important.”  “We need to build a system that supports people when and where they need it. The current system doesn’t always work well for Māori, young people or those living rurally in particular,” said Karen Orsborn, Chief Executive of Te

Published: September 2023

Kia ora, tough times affect each of us differently. It’s okay to reach out if you need to or, if you’re worried about someone else, to encourage them to reach out. We all need a bit of support from time to time. If you or someone you know is struggling, we want you to know that however you or they

Published: 11 June, 2025

extensive enough to drive improvement at the scale and pace we need,” said Karen Orsborn.  “It has been 7 years since the landmark He Ara Oranga report in 2018. Our report shows that while there are pockets of positive change, the system has got a significant way to go to achieve the outcomes

Published: 28 October, 2021

accessible to young people. Wano acknowledges that programme implementation has been happening during difficult times, with delays because of the COVID-19 response. The pandemic has understandably been a big challenge. However, the Access and Choice programme is critical to ensuring that people have

Published: 5 June, 2024

difficulties getting access to higher levels of care such as specialist services when needed. “If you can’t get help in one part of the system you’ll invariably turn elsewhere. For instance, emergency responses continue to see increasing mental health related calls.” “We have got to do more to ensure

Published: 25 June, 2026

The Minister for Mental Health Hon Matt Doocey has announced changes to the composition of the Board of Te Hiringa Mahara – Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission. The current chair Hayden Wano is standing down in July. The independent crown entity’s new chairperson is Dr Barbara Disley, and Dr

Published: January 2026

In 2025 we finalised an updated organisational strategy. This covers the four years to 2029 and sets out how we will achieve our vision and mission. The 2025-2029 Statement of Intent reflects this refreshed direction. Agreement to a new strategy followed a thorough review process, consultation and

Published: 22 September, 2021

in their local communities increasing equity for priority groups - those communities that we know disproportionately experience mental distress and addiction working alongside people with lived experience of mental distress to repeal and replace the Mental Health Act - ensuring that all legislation

Published: 25 June, 2020

, it presents challenges and opportunities for the mental health and wellbeing system." "We would like to encourage the system to pause, reflect and embrace the strengths that emerged in the last few months, such as collaboration, high trust and a shared understanding of need and outcomes. Our response to COVID-19 has shown that together, we can achieve great things. Let’s not lose this,” says Mr Wano. You can read the report on our website .