Mental Health & Addiction Update

The timeframe for developing Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy has been extended to ensure alignment with proposed law changes

Last year, the Pae Ora (Healthy Futures) Act was changed to require the development of a Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy (the Strategy). This means that for the first time, New Zealand must have a national strategy focussed on improving mental health and wellbeing over the long term.

The Act is now being amended again so that all health strategies will need to:  

·         align with other health strategies,

·         reflect relevant Government health targets, and

·         be refreshed within two years of the Act’s amendment.

As a result, the Minister for Mental Health has extended the timeframe for finalising the Strategy by about six months. Public consultation is now expected in early 2026.  

This extra time will support a more inclusive and robust consultation process and a stronger, more cohesive strategic direction for mental health and wellbeing in New Zealand.

We will keep you updated and look forward to working with you to shape a strategy that reflects the needs and aspirations of New Zealanders.

Questions and answers

What is, or will be, in the Strategy?

The Strategy will guide long-term improvement of New Zealanders’ mental health and wellbeing outcomes. Because the Strategy is a requirement in the Pae Ora (Healthy Futures) Act 2022, it must include:

·         an assessment of the current state, and the performance of the health sector in relation to mental health and wellbeing outcomes,

·         an assessment of the medium- and long-term trends that will affect mental health and wellbeing outcomes, and

·         priorities for mental health and addiction services and health sector improvement relating to mental health and wellbeing, including workforce development.

The proposed amendments to the Pae Ora (Healthy Futures) Act may add further requirements.

Why has the Strategy been delayed?

The Strategy’s timeframes are being extended to align with proposed changes to the Pae Ora (Healthy Futures) Act. These changes will introduce new requirements for all health strategies, including the need for consistency across strategies and alignment with Government health targets. Waiting means we can avoid repeating work and ensure the Strategy is future-proofed.

Is the Strategy still a priority for the Government?

Absolutely. The Minister for Mental Health considers progressing the Strategy a key priority. The delay is about doing it right—not about stepping back from the commitment.

When will the Strategy be released now?

We expect to finalise the Strategy around mid-2026, after the legislative changes are confirmed. This ensures it meets any new requirements and aligns with other health priorities.

Why not just release it now and update it later?

Pressing ahead now would likely mean repeating the consultation and development process soon after, which would be inefficient and could undermine the trust and contributions of those who’ve already engaged with us.

What are the benefits of waiting?

The extended timeframe allows for:

·         a more inclusive and thorough consultation process,

·         integration of insights from related work on substance harm and eating disorders, and

·         a stronger, more cohesive strategic direction for mental health and wellbeing.

Will there be more opportunities for public input?

Yes. The extended timeline gives us more space to engage meaningfully with communities, professionals, and other stakeholders. We’re committed to making sure the Strategy reflects the voices and needs of New Zealanders.

How can I provide input on the Strategy?

Public consultation is expected to happen in early 2026. We’ll provide different ways for people to give feedback, such as online surveys, written submissions and feedback sessions. If you’d like to help your community to take part, please contact us at mhasp.engagement@health.govt.nz.

What happens in the meantime?

Work to improve mental health and wellbeing continues. For the Ministry, this includes:

·         progressing changes to the Mental Health Act

·         overseeing and delivering on the Suicide Prevention Action Plan, the Strategy to Prevent and Minimise Gambling Harm, and the refreshed Eating Issues and Eating Disorders

Strategy

·         working to enhance the crisis response continuum, and  

·         progressing the Child and Youth Mental Health Prevalence Survey. 

The Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy will build on these initiatives and investments. We’ll keep progressing those while preparing for the next phase of consultation and development.