Health NZ launches whānau-focused campaign to lift Māori immunisation

Health New Zealand has launched an immunisation campaign titled “Story to Tell,” featuring real whānau experiences and an original song written and performed by artist Betty-Anne Monga alongside her sons.

Monga noted that the project was designed to make space for open questions, different experiences, and conversations about childhood immunisations.

The campaign launches alongside the release of Health New Zealand data showing 71.3% of Māori children were fully immunised at age two, compared to an 83.7% national average, a disparity the initiative aims to close by encouraging open conversations and connecting whānau with support.

Official Health New Zealand figures show Māori immunisation coverage has risen from 60.6% in September 2024 to 71.3% in June 2026. Although this reflects steady upward progress, it remains below the 83.7% national average and well short of the government’s 95% target for full childhood immunisation.