It's Time To Put Wāhine First: Women's Health Week Launches 11 August

At 6pm on Monday 11 August, Auckland's Sky Tower will light up in purple and teal, marking the launch of Tend Te Wiki Hauroa Wāhine (11-17 August) - New Zealand's biggest celebration of women's health and wellbeing.

The week-long initiative, spearheaded by digi-physical healthcare provider Tend, will see events across the motu, from workshops in Marton to free cervical screening in Ōtautahi, all designed to encourage New Zealand wāhine to prioritise their health.

"For too long, women have put everyone else first, their whānau, their work, their communities," says Cecilia Robinson, Co-CEO of Tend. "This week is their permission slip to put themselves at the centre of their own health story."

Dame Valerie Adams champions the cause

The week kicks off with an exclusive panel event at SkyCity on Monday 11 August, featuring Dame Valerie Adams, who will share her powerful story about the importance of prioritising women's health.

"My own mum left us too soon because she didn't make her health a priority," says Dame Valerie Adams, whose mother tragically passed away from cervical cancer at just 39 years old. "It's a story I carry with me every day. This week, it is our wāhine’s time to shine. I want them to have the conversations, ask the questions and seek the care they deserve.”

Free cervical screening removes barriers

A major highlight of the week is free cervical screening at all Tend clinics on Friday 15 August. Screening can prevent 95% of cervical cancers, yet cost remains a significant barrier for many women.

"By removing the financial barrier for one day, we're not just providing a health service - we're sending a clear message that women's preventive healthcare should be accessible to all," says Robinson.

Survey reveals the 'gender tax' on healthcare

During the week, Tend will reveal findings from their groundbreaking survey of over 1,300 New Zealand women, exposing the true financial cost of being a woman in Aotearoa.

"The research confirms there is a 'gender tax' when it comes to healthcare – money spent on essential health products and services that men simply don't need," says Robinson. "We're talking about period products, contraception, pregnancy care, menopause management – these aren't luxuries, they're necessities."

Strong support from leaders across sectors

The Hon Nicola Grigg, Minister for Women, is championing the event: "As a first-time mum juggling a busy travel schedule while working and caring for our son, I can now see how many women neglect their health needs because they’ve simply run out of hours in the week. I don't want any woman to put looking after their health and wellbeing at the bottom of the to-do list."

The Selwyn Foundation, led by CEO Denise Cosgrove, is highlighting the unique health challenges and broader wellbeing issues facing older women. Single older women in particular can often face other difficulties that impact their overall health and make them more vulnerable – social isolation, housing insecurity, financial stress, and limited access to support. Tend Women's Health Week reminds us that health isn't just about medical care – it's about addressing the social determinants that impact wellbeing throughout a woman's life.”

"We want every woman in New Zealand to feel empowered about her health," says Robinson. "Whether you're 18 or 80, whether you're dealing with periods, pregnancy, or menopause, this week is for you.”

“But this week isn't just for women, it's about all of us understanding women's health better," adds Robinson. "We want fathers, partners, sons, and colleagues to learn something new. When we support women's health, we strengthen our entire community."

About Women's Health Week 2025

Te Wiki Hauora Wāhine is New Zealand's annual celebration of women's health and wellbeing, designed to encourage women to prioritise their physical and mental health. Founded by Tend in 2024, the week features events, educational content, and health services across the country.

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