Health New Zealand is seeking feedback on a proposed model for adult palliative care services in New Zealand.

“I encourage people to take this opportunity to share their views on this proposed model and help us shape these vital services for the future,” says Debbie Holdsworth, Director Funding, Community and Mental Health.

“The proposed model of care aims to improve quality of life, reduce inequities, and ensure all New Zealanders can access high quality, holistic, culturally responsive, whānau-centred, and seamless care at the end of life.”

The key differences between this model and our existing services are increased emphasis on:

  • holistic care that aligns with people’s goals and includes support for whānau carers
  • integration of primary and specialist palliative care services with flexible transitions
  • proactive and collaborative care planning for the end of life
  • regional and national approaches to ensure consistent and equitable access to, and outcomes from, palliative care services.

All feedback is welcomed, and particularly Health New Zealand wants to hear people’s thoughts on:

  • the proposed core components of primary and specialist palliative care services
  • the overall model
  • what change is the most important.

The Proposed National Model for Integrated Adult Palliative Care in New Zealand can be seen on our website here: National Palliative Care Work Programme

People can provide their feedback via ThoughtExchange here: Thoughtexchange.com (external link)

The ThoughtExchange survey allows people to add their thoughts anonymously to the discussion. People can then read and rate what others are saying about the work and see the results in real time. The number of thoughts appearing will increase as more people participate, so they can return later to see what other thoughts have been added.

ThoughtExchange is our preferred way to receive feedback from groups and individuals. Alternatively, feedback can be emailed to: palliativecare@tewhatuora.govt.nz

Feedback closes on Friday 10 October 2025.