Election 2026

We’re building a network of people affected by arthritis to call for better care, support and long-term action this election.

Arthritis NZ is concerned and frustrated about the lack of progress in improving services for people with arthritis. We have met with many MPs and the Health Minister but we need your help.

The NZ Health Survey shows over 860,000 people in New Zealand have arthritis, with the most common being osteoarthritis, gout arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. There are many other forms, and some people have more than one. It is one of the most common long-term conditions, and we need to do more so those with arthritis get the early support and treatment they need.

People wait too long to see a specialist, to get the right medication, and for access to allied health professionals to help them get back to the lives they knew before arthritis. And while they wait, their arthritis deteriorates, often with increasing pain, affecting their mental health and wellbeing.

We need to shift the dial on MPs taking action!

• Join the network today by filling out the form. We’ll send you information on what the Network is doing.
• Write to the Minister of Health and members of the Health Select Committee – their details are below and a draft letter is here. The inclusion of your personal experience can demonstrate the need for timely diagnosis and better services.   
• Copy us into your email at info@arthritis.org.nz so we can follow up. 

With you help, we’ll ask MPs and candidates to work together on a cross-party alliance to improve the lives of people with arthritis.  We desperately need a long-term plan for this long-term condition.

Thank you for helping every person in New Zealand living with arthritis by supporting this campaign!

Health Select Committee Members

Other Political Parties