Latest

5 years on, COVID remains NZ’s most important infectious disease – it still demands a strong response

3 Mar 2025

Friday, February 28, marks five years since COVID-19 was first reported in Aotearoa New Zealand. At a population level, it remains our most harmful infectious disease, with thousands of hospitalisations and 664 deaths last year.. Read more

Share this post:

X (Twitter) Facebook LinkedIn Email

Medicines industry ‘dodges a bullet’ with tariff exemption – for now

New Zealand’s pharmaceutical sector is cautiously optimistic over the industry being granted an exemption from US President Donald Trump’s tariffs.

Faster approvals for medicines available overseas under new law

The legislation will give the health minister the power to approve, reject or transfer medication applications

Popular weight-loss drug Wegovy receives approval in New Zealand

A popular weight-loss drug used by celebrities overseas has been approved by New Zealand’s medicine regulatory body, with its producer hoping to make it accessible “as soon as possible”.

Key issues

HEALTH SERVICES AND SYSTEMS

Covering developments in the provision, funding and organisation of health care services.

EQUITY

Exploring the impacts of the health system on minorities within the population, notably including Māori, Pacifica, Asians and LGBTQI.

DRUGS, DEVICE AND DIAGNOSTICS

Covering prescription medicines and medical devices.

PUBLIC HEALTH

Focusing on efforts to promote health and prevent disease through social and economic interventions.

DIGITAL HEALTH

Exploring the potential digital transformation to provide a more connected and accessible health system.

TE TIRITI

Monitoring how the health reforms and the performance of the health sector uphold Te Tiriti obligations.