New Data Shows Strong Gains in Mental Health and Addiction Access Nationwide

Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey says the results demonstrate that more New Zealanders are getting the help they need, faster and more consistently.

Newly released data shows significant progress across all three national mental health and addiction access targets, marking the first full year-on-year comparison since the system was overhauled. Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey says the results demonstrate that more New Zealanders are getting the help they need, faster and more consistently.

Faster Access and Shorter Wait Times Across All Indicators

For quarter one, the latest figures show improvement in every national performance measure compared with the same period last year:

• Primary Mental Health & Addiction Support:83.4% of people accessed support within one week — up from 80.8%.

• Specialist Mental Health & Addiction Services:82.2% received specialist care within three weeks — up from 80.4%.

• Emergency Department Stays:66.8% of people presenting in distress were admitted or discharged within six hours — an increase from 63.5%.

Doocey says that while shorter ED stays remain the most challenging target, the improvement is meaningful. Eight out of twenty districts have now met the Government’s 77% milestone, with all South Island districts achieving the benchmark — a key indication that system reforms are beginning to deliver results.

Improvements Across All Communities

The Minister also highlighted strong gains across key population groups, emphasising that equitable access is central to government strategy:

• Asian communities: ED stays improved from 53.8% to 59%

• Māori: Specialist access increased from 82.5% to 83.6%

• Pacific peoples: Primary support access rose significantly from 81.6% to 87.4%

These improvements reflect increasing capacity, better referral pathways, and targeted support in communities that have historically faced barriers to timely care.

Ending the ‘Postcode Lottery’ in Mental Health Support

Doocey reiterated that the Government’s mission is not only to lift national averages, but to ensure consistent performance across all 20 health districts.

He stressed that reaching national targets is not “job done,” as improvement must also occur in regions that remain below the benchmarks. The goal is to eliminate the so-called postcode lottery, where a person’s access to mental health care varies significantly depending on where they live.

Frontline Workers Praised for Driving Improvements

The Minister paid tribute to mental health and addiction workers across the country, saying the positive results are a testament to their dedication and hard work.

“Every day, frontline staff change lives,” he said. “Their efforts are helping us fix the basics and build a future where support is available when and where people need it.”

A Clear Direction for Continued Progress

Doocey reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to modernising mental health services, investing in faster pathways to care, and strengthening district-level performance. With encouraging momentum shown in the first full comparative dataset, the Ministry aims to continue driving improvement throughout the health system.