70 | Growing influence in supporting farmers Dr Grant Davidson with Sarah at Tarawera Falls. Karen Phelps Being named a finalist in the 2026 Beef + Lamb New Zealand Awards for the FMG Rural Champion Award is shining a national spotlight on the work of Hauora Taiwhenua Rural Health Network (HTRHN), recognising its growing influence in supporting farmer wellbeing and strengthening rural communities. “HTRHN recognises the proportionate burden that primary industry workers carry,” says Dr Grant Davidson, Chief Executive Wellington. “Successive governments have set ambitious trade targets to double exports in 10 years. Healthy and vibrant rural communities are essential to increasing primary industry production.” The organisation was formed in 2022 through the unification of several rural health groups. A cornerstone of its outreach has been the Hauora Taiwhenua Health and Wellbeing Hub at Fieldays in Hamilton. Since its inception in 2021, the hub has tripled in size and now attracts up to 25,000 visitors over four days. Staffed by volunteer health professionals and students, it offers services ranging from blood pressure checks to mental health support and immunisations. “This is often the only health check some farmers receive each year,” says Grant. “By meeting people where they are, we are identifying issues early and connecting them with the wider health system.” The network has also taken a leadership role in advocacy. Its inaugural Rural Health New Zealand Snapshot has provided policymakers with robust data highlighting disparities between rural and urban healthcare access. Presented to the Minister of Health, the report continues to inform evidence-based recommendations aimed at reducing inequities caused by geographic isolation. The organisation has also elevated rural concerns through RuralFest, an annual event held at Parliament that brings together farmers, health professionals, policymakers and industry leaders. With record political attendance this year, the event has evolved into a solutions-focused forum driving tangible action, including ongoing quarterly engagement with government ministers. A significant portion of its work with the farming sector is delivered through its Rural Communities Chapter, which includes organisations such as Rural Women NZ, Federated Farmers, the Rural Contractors Association and Rural Support Trusts. The group is currently leading The Golden Key Project, Te Korowai o te Hapori (Cloak of the Community), aimed at strengthening rural health workforce retention. RURAL SERVICES » Hauora Taiwhenua Rural Health Network “This project is about building local community networks to welcome international doctors and their families into rural New Zealand,” says Grant. “Rural communities understand how critical the health workforce is and want those doctors, and health students on rural placements, to feel so valued that they choose to stay long term.” The network has also helped shape government investment of $164 million into rural urgent care services, supported the placement of more than 100 healthcare professionals into rural practices and contributed to national discussions on suicide prevention, where rural rates remain disproportionately high. HTRHN has also worked alongside Rural Communities Chapter members to advocate for stronger mental health support, engaging directly with government to highlight the needs of rural and remote farming communities. “It is pleasing to see this result in increased funding Tautoko Taiwhenua Support when you need it most. Rural Support is here to help with the unique challenges of rural life. Give us a free, confidential call today. 0800 787 254 | rural-support.org.nz Our local teams have first-hand experience and knowledge to understand what you’re going through, and are here to listen to whatever’s on your mind. for Rural Support Trusts, and more recently joint funding of $4 million from MPI and Health New Zealand to support wellbeing initiatives,” says Grant. “Eighteen community-led programmes are now underway and will have a direct impact on farmers and their families across the country.” “Our work is about ensuring rural families are not left behind. Whether it is through recruitment, advocacy or community programmes, every initiative is focused on delivering real change.”
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