iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 15/10/2026

It's ADHD awareness month. The Health and Independence Report highlights the impact of neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions. Find out how reforms allow a wider range of qualified health practitioners to assess and initiate ADHD treatment, improving access. See below for more.

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 08/10/2026

Last month, we published the Health and Independence Report. The report shows life expectancy for Māori has improved over time, but significant differences in health outcomes remain. Understanding the experiences of different communities helps us target support where it's needed most. Read more ⬇️

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 06/10/2026

Last month, we published the Health and Independence Report. According to the report, New Zealand is expected to have 1 million people aged 65+ within the next 5 years. As our population ages, demand for health, disability and aged care services will continue to grow. Read the reports below.

A close-up square image showing a younger hand gently holding a wrinkled, elderly hand on top of a dark, textured blanket. At the bottom, logos for the New Zealand Government | Te Kāwanatanga o Aotearoa and the Ministry of Health | Manatū Hauora are displayed.

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 24/08/2026

Blood monitoring requirements for patients taking the psychiatric medicine clozapine will change from March 2027, helping reduce disruptions for patients while maintaining important safeguards. See below for more information (links in the comments).

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 07/08/2026

The latest edition of Public Health Matters is out now. It highlights some of the important work from across the Public Health Agency, within the Ministry of Health. Read the latest edition and sign up to receive future editions below (links in comments).

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 05/08/2026

The Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2026-2036 has been launched. Providing a 10-year direction for improving mental health, addiction, and wellbeing outcomes in Aotearoa New Zealand. Shaped by feedback from around 900 people and organisations. More information below (link it the comments).

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 29/07/2026

The Ministry of Health will work with other agencies to rapidly deliver on the commitments outlined in Government's Response to the Royal Commission of Inquiry COVID-19 Lessons Learned. For more information see below.

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 06/07/2026

The Mental Health Bill has passed its third reading in Parliament. The new legislation will modernise compulsory mental health care, strengthen protections, support decision-making, and increase family and whānau involvement. More information below.

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 03/07/2026

From today, medicines that have already been approved by two recognised overseas regulators can be considered for assessment through the streamlined verification pathway. For more information see below (link in comments).

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 02/07/2026

Update: New research on recalled sand products containing asbestos supports the precautionary approach already taken by health authorities. Current health advice remains unchanged. More information below (in the comments).

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 25/06/2026

We have published the Research Agenda: Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatic Heart Disease setting a clear, coordinated direction for future research in New Zealand. Find out more below (link in comments).

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 14/06/2026

The Ministry of Health is inviting submissions on a proposed list of prescription medicines for designated paramedic prescribers. Submissions close Sunday, 5 July 2026 11:59pm. For more information, see below (link in the comments).

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 11/06/2026

📢 Tighter controls on nitrous oxide are now in force. New rules aim to reduce harm from misuse while supporting legitimate uses. Import approvals will be required. Alcohol Drug Helpline: - 0800 787 797 - Free text 8681 For more information, see below (link in the comments below).

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 11/06/2026

The alcohol levy has been updated for 2026/27 to maintain funding for services that reduce alcohol-related harm across New Zealand. The levy will be set at $17.135 million, a modest increase to maintain its real value and support continuation of existing programmes. News article below.

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 04/06/2026

Today (5 June) is Safe Sleep Day which focuses on raising awareness and ensuring every sleep a baby has is a safe sleep. It is a good reminder to make sure we put our babies to sleep safely.

Image of a baby’s hand gently holding an adult finger, photographed in soft, warm lighting with a blurred background. White text at the top reads ‘Safe Sleep Day’ and ‘5 June 2026’. At the bottom are the New Zealand Government Te Kāwanatanga o Aotearoa and Ministry of Health Manatū Hauora logos.

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 04/06/2026

Our latest Hauora update from the Acting Director‑General of Health is now published on our website. Read the full update below (link in comments). #MinistryofHealth #Moh

Portrait of a person wearing glasses, a black blazer, and an orange top, standing outdoors near a building with greenery in the background. A dark blue banner across the lower part of the image reads: ‘Hauora: Update from Acting Director-General of Health, Ruth Isaac’. At the bottom are the Te Kāwanatanga o Aotearoa New Zealand Government and Ministry of Health Manatū Hauora logos.

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 27/05/2026

The Ministry has received a few questions over the past week about the emerging diphtheria outbreak in Australia. The short answer is a) the risk to New Zealand remains low and b) we are in regular contact with Australian health authorities about the emerging outbreak.

Image of text that says "Diphtheria in Australia. The risk to New Zealand remains low and we are in regular contact with Australian health authorities about the emerging outbreak. Immunisation offers the best protection against the disease." The logos for the NZ Government and Ministry of Health are at the bottom.

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 21/05/2026

Peptide products are being promoted on social media. They are unapproved medicines and pose serious health risks — with little evidence they work and no guarantee of what's in them. See below for more information (link in the comments below).

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 21/05/2026

📢 Announcement: Faster access to medicines in New Zealand The rules needed to put the Government’s ‘rule of two’ verification pathway into practice, have now been finalised. This will streamline New Zealanders’ access to new medicines. For more information see comments below.

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 18/05/2026

On World Family Doctor Day we recognise general practitioners across New Zealand and the high quality healthcare they provide to families and whānau in communities where patients live. GPs are among the first people we see when care is needed, and often those we trust the most.

Doctor Joe Bourne, Chief Medical Officer at the Ministry of Health, who is also a General Practitioner, is wearing scrubs and a surgical mask examines a child’s throat using a tongue depressor and handheld light in a clinic room. The child, seated on an examination chair, wears a dark school uniform shirt and has a mask pulled below their chin while opening their mouth for the check. In the background, a computer monitor displays a Health Navigator webpage about immunisation and vaccines. The walls are covered with health posters, including a red “Your Rights when receiving a Health or Disability Service” sign and a poster about whānau fitness classes, employment support, and mental health services. There is a header on the photo saying 'World Family Doctor Day'.

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 14/05/2026

Last chance to help shape the future of mental health and wellbeing in Aotearoa. Consultation on the draft Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy closes 5pm 18 May. Don’t miss out - have your say (link in comments).

Square photo of a family standing in shallow water at a beach, with children splashing and playing. An adult holds a small child while others watch nearby. A dark blue banner across the bottom reads: ‘Have your say: Consultation open until 18 May 2026’, with a QR code and ‘Scan me’ text. Below are the Te Kāwanatanga o Aotearoa New Zealand Government and Ministry of Health Manatū Hauora logos.

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 11/05/2026

Today on International Nurses Day we recognise the vital role nurses play in supporting the health and wellbeing of people and whānau across Aotearoa New Zealand and acknowledge nursing students as an important part of the future workforce. #InternationalNursesDay #Nurses #MinistryofHealth

Square group photo of a large healthcare team seated and standing together in an indoor meeting room with tall windows in the background. Several people wear matching blue uniforms, while others wear casual or business attire. A dark blue banner across the bottom of the image reads ‘International Nurses Day’. Beneath the image are the Te Kāwanatanga o Aotearoa New Zealand Government and the Ministry of Health Manatū Hauora logos.

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 07/05/2026

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 04/05/2026

On #InternationalDayoftheMidwife we recognise midwifery students across NZ and their role in the future of our maternity system. Through clinical leadership, the Ministry works with schools and sector partners to build insight into workforce sustainability. #MoH #InternationalDayofMidwives

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 01/05/2026

Interested in health leadership opportunities? The Ministry is supporting a virtual information session on the 2027–28 Harkness Fellowship, in partnership with the Commonwealth Fund and Health New Zealand. Applications open 1 June 2026. Register below to learn more (links in the comments below).

Promotional square graphic with a dark blue panel on the left and a city skyline at sunset on the right. Large white text reads: ‘Interested in health leadership opportunities?’ Smaller text below says: ‘Find out more about the Harkness Fellowship below.’ The skyline shows tall buildings lit with evening lights. Along the bottom are the logos for Te Kāwanatanga o Aotearoa New Zealand Government, The Commonwealth Fund, and the Ministry of Health Manatū Hauora.

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 28/04/2026

There’s still time to share your thoughts 💬 Consultation is open on the draft Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy. Join an online consultation session or make a submission. Closes 18 May 2026. Links in comments below. ↓

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 24/04/2026

Our Director-General, Chief Clinical Advisor for Rural Health, and Policy Analyst represented the Ministry at the WONCA World Rural Health Conference in Wellington. Rural WONCA is a global forum that brought together 978 health professionals and advocates from around the world. Learn more below.

Photo of Director-General of Health Audrey Sonerson presenting to an audience at the Rural WONCA conference. At the bottom are the logos for Te Kāwanatanga o Aotearoa (New Zealand Government) and Ministry of Health (Manatū Hauora).

Photo of Susa Robertson-Burns and Helen MacGregor presenting onstage in front of a screen which reads, "21st WONCA World Rural Health Conference New Zealand." At the bottom are the logos for Te Kāwanatanga o Aotearoa (New Zealand Government) and Ministry of Health (Manatū Hauora).

A panel of eleven speakers onstage in front of a screen which reads, "21st WONCA World Rural Health Conference New Zealand." At the bottom are the logos for Te Kāwanatanga o Aotearoa (New Zealand Government) and Ministry of Health (Manatū Hauora).

Audrey Sonerson and Helen MacGregor speaking with Dr Grant Davidson (Chief Executive of Hauora Taiwhenua). At the bottom are the logos for Te Kāwanatanga o Aotearoa (New Zealand Government) and Ministry of Health (Manatū Hauora).

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 16/04/2026

We have updated New Zealand’s Cremation Regulations 1973 to better reflect modern clinical practice, reduce duplication, and help avoid unnecessary delays for families. These changes come into effect 7 May 2026. More information below (links in comments).

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 15/04/2026

We’ve updated the regional New Zealand Health Survey data and added a new video to help people use it with confidence. The new explainer video covers: - How the regional data is structured. - How to choose the right statistics. - How to interpret the data. Links in the comments below.

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 12/04/2026

8 anti-seizure medicines in NZ now carry a new pregnancy cautionary advisory label — the first pharmacist added pregnancy warning of its kind. The label is designed to highlight the risks of taking certain anti-seizure medicines during pregnancy. Watch our videos on FACS below (links in comments).

Information graphic titled ‘Example of the new cautionary advisory label’. At the top is a yellow warning label with an icon and text stating: ‘Talk to your prescriber if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding’. Below, text explains that the label will be applied to the following anti‑seizure medicines: Carbamazepine, Ethosuximide, Oxcarbazepine, Phenobarbitone, Phenytoin, Primidone, Sodium valproate, and Topiramate. At the bottom are the Te Kāwanatanga o Aotearoa New Zealand Government and Ministry of Health Manatū Hauora logos.

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 08/04/2026

Have your say on the future of mental health and wellbeing in Aotearoa. Public consultation is now open on the draft Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy 🗓️ Open 8 April – 18 May 2026 Help spread the word. Find out more (link in comments).

Square graphic photo of a family standing in shallow water at a beach, with children splashing and playing. An adult holds a small child while others watch nearby. A dark blue banner across the bottom reads: ‘Have your say: Consultation open until 18 May 2026’, with a QR code and ‘Scan me’ text. Below are the Te Kāwanatanga o Aotearoa New Zealand Government and Ministry of Health Manatū Hauora logos.

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 30/03/2026

The Ministry of Health recently hosted the first meeting of the refreshed Pacific Expert Advisory Group (PEAG) — a key step in strengthening how Pacific voices, evidence and community insight shape our work. We look forward to working alongside PEAG as they continue this important role.

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 26/03/2026

It's Purple Day (international epilepsy awareness day). Some anti‑seizure medicines used for seizure disorders can carry risks during pregnancy — early conversations with your healthcare provider matter. Watch our videos here: youtu.be/Af89KdMSAFQ youtu.be/ulc3vd4flQ0 youtu.be/jcMXcx7d87o

Health information graphic titled ‘Foetal Anti‑Convulsant Syndrome (FACS)’. Text states: ‘We estimate 48,000 Kiwis are currently taking anti‑seizure medicines for a range of health needs.’ A photo on the right shows a pregnant abdomen with hands resting on it. A QR code appears with the instruction ‘Scan here to find out more’ leading to Ministry of Health's webpage about FACS. Logos along the bottom include Te Kāwanatanga o Aotearoa New Zealand Government, FACS NZ, Epilepsy New Zealand, and the Ministry of Health Manatū Hauora.

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 20/03/2026

Happy World Oral Health Day! 🦷 NZ Health Survey 2024/25 highlights: • 76.9% of adults report good–excellent oral health • 91.6% of children rated good–excellent • 2 in 3 brush with fluoride • 43% of adults didn’t visit a dental care worker due to cost More insights in the survey (link in comments)

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 17/03/2026

NZMAT recently delivered training for a new cohort of team members, joined by health professionals, FENZ members, and colleagues from Pacific Island countries. Huge thanks to everyone who contributed and to MFAT for supporting this critical capability. #NZMAT #EMTeams #FEMAT #SEMAT #KukiMAT

Collage of photos showing members of NZMAT (New Zealand Medical Assistance Team) during training day. Images include a large beige field tent being set up indoors, a group photo outdoors with team members holding a New Zealand Medical Assistance Team banner, a close up of a uniform with ‘New Zealand Health’ on the back, and several group shots of the full team wearing matching uniforms. The bottom-right image shows the team standing in front of the assembled emergency tent.

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 04/03/2026

New Zealand and Singapore have signed a Health Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking an important step in strengthening the bilateral health relationship between both countries. Huge thanks to the Global Health Team and everyone who contributed to this work — kōkiri ngātahi in action.

Photo of the Director-General of Health Audrey Sonerson, seated at a desk signing documents in an office setting. Behind the person is a teal display panel showing Minostry of Health values such as Manaakitanga, Whakaponō, and Kaitiakitanga, alongside a blue Ministry of Health Manatū Hauora banner. The lower part of the image includes the New Zealand Government and Ministry of Health logos.

Photo of Wei Lin Lai Permanent Secretary (Policy & Development) seated at a desk holding up a large red document folder. Behind the person is a backdrop patterned with multiple Ministry of Health Singapore logos. A Singapore flag stands to the left of the person. At the bottom of the image are the New Zealand Government and Ministry of Health logos.

Group photo of multiple people standing together in a hallway with dark flooring. Two large, framed artworks with bold, colourful designs hang on the wall behind the group. The lighting is bright from overhead ceiling panels. At the bottom of the graphic are the New Zealand Government and Ministry of Health logos.

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 15/02/2026

Have your say on Ngā Paerewa The Ministry of Health is inviting feedback on the Ngā Paerewa Health and Disability Services Standard (NZS 8134:2021). 🗓️ Open: 16 Feb 2026 🗓️ Close: 16 Mar 2026, 5pm See below for more information and how to share your feedback (link in comments).

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 12/02/2026

Applications for Survivor Support and Recognition Fund closes Friday 27 February 2026. This contestable fund is for organisations that support survivors of abuse in care and local authorities to care for unmarked graves. Find out more below (link in comments below)

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 11/02/2026

New members appointed to the Pacific Expert Advisory Group The Ministry of Health is pleased to announce the appointment of new members to the Pacific Expert Advisory Group (PEAG), following a nationwide Expressions of Interest process. See below for more information (link in comments)

Square graphic tile with a blue bell icon above the word ANNOUNCEMENT in bold navy text. Below, smaller text reads: New members appointed to the Pacific Expert Advisory Group. At the bottom are the New Zealand Government and Ministry of Health Manatū Hauora logos.

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 02/02/2026

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 26/01/2026

Migraine affects many Kiwis, impacting work, family life, and wellbeing. New data shows that 628,000 adults experience migraine symptoms. Learn more: www.health.govt.nz/publications... #NZHealthSurvey #Migraine

Blue square that reads: migraine matters. nearly 1 in 7 NZ adults experience migraine symptoms. An image shows 7 people, with one person coloured red to represent the statistics. The new zealand government and ministry of health logos are at the bottom of the square.

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 22/01/2026

How much sleep do you need? Adults: 7–9 hrs Children: Anywhere from 8–17 hrs depending on age #NZHealthSurvey #SleepHealth

Blue square that reads Do you get enough sleep? 67.4% of New Zealand adults get the recommended amount. A picture of person sleeping is in the centre. The New Zealand Government and Ministry of Health logos are at the bottom.

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 21/12/2025

Our latest Health Survey shows hazardous drinking among people aged 15+ has decreased from 21.3% in 2019-2020 to 16.6% in 2024-2025. With the holiday period coming, it’s a timely reminder that alcohol use can impact health and wellbeing. Find out more key findings from our Health Survey below.

Blue square graphic tile with text: Intake matters. 1 in 6 NZ adults experience hazardous drinking. Six human icons shown, one in red to represent the statistic. Includes New Zealand Government and Ministry of Health logos.

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 30/11/2025

Today, on World AIDS Day, we mark a major milestone in New Zealand’s HIV response. The first HIV Monitoring Report has been published, tracking progress toward the ambitious goals of the National HIV Action Plan 2023–2030. Read the full report and media release below.

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 19/11/2025

It is World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week (18 to 24 November 2025). AMR makes infections harder to treat — but you can make a difference! Act now to protect our future. #WAAW2025 #ActNowAMR

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 18/11/2025

The Ministry of Health – Manatū Hauora has published results from the 2024/25 New Zealand Health Survey today. See our results from the Health Survey below.

Blue tile with white text in the centre which reads New Zealand health survey twenty, twenty-four to twenty, twenty-five now published at the bottom are the logos for te kawanatanga o Aotearoa New Zealand government and ministry of health manatu hauora

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 14/11/2025

Today we have launched an animation to encourage young people to learn about the medicines they take to stay well and be aware of the potential risks associated with some medicines during pregnancy: www.health.govt.nz/news/ministr...

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 06/11/2025

Sometimes, side effects happen when we least expect them. If you feel unwell after taking medicine, don’t ignore it. Talk to your healthcare professional and report it to Medsafe. Your report helps make medicines safer for everyone. #MedSafetyWeek2025 #MSW #MedSafe #MinistryofHealthNZ

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 04/11/2025

It’s #MedSafetyWeek (3–9 Nov)! Medicines are helpful in treating illnesses, but can sometimes cause side effects. Use them as directed and report problems to Medsafe. Let’s make medicines safer together. #MedSafetyWeek2025 #MSW #MedSafe #MinistryofHealthNZ

Illustration of a superhero character flying alongside a dog wearing a cape, approaching a healthcare professional holding a clipboard. The background is blue with clouds and birds. The text says #MedSafetyWeek is displayed at the bottom.

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Ministry of Health NZ @health.govt.nz · 09/10/2025

It’s Mental Health Awareness Week. Here's how we’re making it easier to get help: - Progressing the Mental - Health and Wellbeing Strategy - Funding free mental health services - Refreshing the Eating Disorder Strategy after 16 years #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek #MHAW #TopUpTogether

Blue tile with white text in the centre which reads, "Mental Health Awareness Week. 6-12 October 2025." At the bottom are the logos for Te Kāwanatanga o Aotearoa (New Zealand Government) and Ministry of Health (Manatū Hauora).

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