This report looks at the New Zealand government’s progress on implementing recommendations made in the 2018 report - He Ara Oranga: Government Inquiry into Mental Health and Addiction.

Evidence demonstrates that government has shown commitment to drive change and deliver on its obligation to He Ara Oranga, but change isn’t always what was envisaged in He Ara Oranga, particularly by people on the ground who had high expectations for transformation.

While significant government investment is happening, it has been prioritised and sequenced over time. People in the community and on the frontline are concerned at the lack of a visible plan and worry Government investment is ad hoc, too slow, and not targeted in the right areas.

The report highlights examples of services and movements that are supporting communities to improve health and wellbeing in a way that demonstrates the principles and recommendations of He Ara Oranga. These community programmes demonstrate a wellbeing approach where cultural and peer-led services work alongside clinical services.