Ngā Hononga Ora 2025: a conference that met the moment

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In the face of the considerable challenges currently facing New Zealand’s health sector - from growing inequities to the urgent need for digital transformation - the Ngā Hononga Ora Conference 2025 was a timely and deeply inspiring gathering. Held over two days in Wellington and brought together by Collaborative Aotearoa, the conference lived up to its name: fostering vital connections across disciplines, sectors, and communities.

From the opening Mihi Whakatau to the closing reflections, every element of the programme reflected the values underpinning the movement toward more equitable, connected, and whānau-centred health care in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Leadership set the tone

Much of the success of the conference can be credited to the leadership of Jess Morgan-French, who stepped into the CEO role just over a year ago. Under her stewardship, Collaborative Aotearoa has grown in stature and impact, pulling together a talented and passionate team committed to reimagining health care through the lens of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, the Treaty of Waitangi. Jess’s own presentation - sharing emerging insights from her doctoral research into enablers of equity in rural Māori primary care - was a standout, highlighting both her expertise and her vision.

Practical insights, big ideas

The breakout sessions were rich with both practical tools and thought leadership. From digital dashboards to new care models, social prescribing to strategic partnerships, every session had something to offer. The panels on health coaching, AI in primary care, and diversity in the workforce were particularly instructive, reinforcing the need to rethink not just what we do, but how and with whom we do it.

On Friday evening, attendees were welcomed to Pipitea Marae, where whakawhanaungatanga (relationship building) continued over kai and kōrero. It was a powerful setting for forming and renewing relationships in a way that grounded the entire event in connection and shared purpose.

CIO Studio proud to support

As a conference sponsor, CIO Studio was proud to support such an important and well-executed event. Our Executive Founder Ray Delany delivered two memorable contributions. In a plenary slot, he spoke of the importance of being values-driven - especially in times of change - and the need to lead with heart and humility in the digital health space.

The previous day, in a well-attended breakout session provocatively titled "Your Digital Project is Likely to Fail – and What You Should Do About It” Ray challenged common assumptions. He argued that success in digital health transformation is far more about people than technology. His message resonated with many: we must invest in leadership, communication, and culture if we want systems change to stick.

Looking ahead

The team at CIO Studio left the conference feeling energised and deeply connected to the community driving this important work. A huge shoutout to Collaborative Aotearoa for organising such a valuable and engaging event. We’re already looking forward to coming back for the next one.

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