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Rural Medical Immersion Programme Fund

In February 2025, Hāwera Hospital welcomed three fifth-year medical students who will spend a full year gaining hands-on experience in rural healthcare. These students are part of the Rural Medical Immersion Programme (RMIP), designed to strengthen healthcare services in rural New Zealand.

As part of their placement, the students have been provided with a fully furnished home, allowing them to train at Hāwera Hospital while immersing themselves in the South Taranaki community.

Hāwera Hospital is one of four North Island rural training sites selected for the RMIP, a collaboration between the University of Auckland and Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora. Research shows that students who train in a long-term rural placement are six times more likely to return to rural communities, helping to build a stronger rural healthcare workforce.

Want to contribute the Fund? We are seeking contributions to support this programme. Donations will go towards covering rental costs and utility bills for the students’ accommodation while they complete their placement at Hāwera Hospital.

The Rural Medical Immersion Programme Fund welcomes contributions from individuals, families, businesses, and corporate sponsors. If you’re passionate about strengthening rural healthcare, this is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

Lets talk! Get in touch to learn more about how you can support the future of rural healthcare.

The Fund is proudly supported by donors and project supporters:

      • Taranaki Foundation
      • Toi Foundation
      • Hawera Hospital
      • Harcourts Hawera
      • Dr Hannah Lawn & Family
      • Julie & Norm McLeod
      • Eve & Harv Gibbs
      • Harry & Helen Bayliss
      • Ainsley & Philip Luscombe
      • Phil & Robyn Hinton
      • Diana & Ian Read
      • Marilyn Davies
      • Leonie & Lyle Smart
      • Jill & Gary Dunlop
      • Dr Chris Heatherton
      • Dr Tom Dawson
      • South Taranaki District Council
      • TAFT

Fund Overview