The Health Action Hub held its bimonthly meeting on 22 April, focusing on housing and homelessness. Jenny Ombler, Research Fellow at the New Zealand Centre for Sustainable Cities and He Kāinga Oranga/Housing and Health Research Programme, presented her research on ending homelessness in Aotearoa. Her presentation was followed by a discussion with members on the gendered dimensions of homelessness, the factors contributing to women’s housing insecurity, and the challenges of finding effective solutions.

The Hub recently made a submission, led by Nicky Newton, to a UN Committee on violence against older women. We appreciate the responses from members and organisations, which enabled Nicky to identify key issues affecting older women and to make recommendations for international consideration.

The Action Hub continues to advance work across three priority areas:

• Health, safety and wellbeing policy and submissions
• Women’s reproductive and maternal health
• Eliminating violence against all women and girls

These broad priorities and areas of focus guide our advocacy to ensure women’s voices are represented in policy development and are heard by Government, media, civil society leaders and communities.

The Hub is supported by a dedicated committee, and we want to expand and strengthen our capacity and capabilities.  We welcome expressions of interest from members who have skills in administration, communication, policy analysis, or related areas, who are committed to advancing health and wellbeing outcomes for women’s and girls in Aotearoa.  

Those interested in contributing to the Hub’s activities are encouraged to get in touch: [email protected]

To read more articles from The Circular (March-April 2026) issue 656, click on the tag below.