Mental Health & Addiction 2026 General Election Debate

On Monday 31 August, Platform hosted the only Mental Health and Addiction Election Debate at the Allan Gibbs Centre at Wellington College. Around 400 participants attended in person and online highlighting a strong sector interest in the future of mental health and addiction services in Aotearoa. 

Facilitated by Michael Morrah, the panel brought together candidates from across the political spectrum: Kahurangi Carter (Greens), Ingrid Leary (Labour), Hon Matthew Doocey (National), Jenny Marcroft (NZ First), and Jessica Hammond (The Opportunity Party).

The debate generated a strong sense of energy and engagement, with attendees responding to a wide range of questions and sharing perspectives. It provided an important opportunity for the sector to hear directly from political parties about their priorities for mental health and addiction, including workforce challenges and service access.

Platform has been clear in communicating its key priorities to all political parties ahead of the election. You can read our 2026 General Election key messages here.

While there were differing views on some issues, several common themes emerged, including support for the Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2026-2036 and implementation plan, the need to address the social determinants of health, improve access to services, and strengthen the workforce.

Thank you to all those who attended online and in person for your engagement and interest in addressing mental health and addiction outcomes in Aotearoa New Zealand.

You can watch the full recording of the debate (with New Zealand Sign Language Interpreters) below.