The public health system in New Zealand

The health system in New Zealand has gone through drastic changes after the Pae Ora (Healthy Futures) Act was implemented in June 2022. This act outlined the need to centralize the health system to address persistent health inequities between populations.

New Zealand Health Strategy

This publication sets the direction for achieving pae ora, healthy futures for all New Zealanders over the next 10 years.

The New Zealand Health Strategy sets out how New Zealand’s health system can improve people’s access to and experiences of health services so that everyone benefits – both individually, through better accessibility, quality and efficiency of care; and collectively, as we all benefit from having a healthier population.

The New Zealand Health Strategy will help achieve a shift in thinking, so that health is not just viewed as an outcome, but as an enabler of wellbeing.

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.