12900 (2026). Debbie Ngarewa-Packer to the Minister of Health

Written Question

Published date: 22 Apr 2026

Metadata

Document type:	Written Question
Parliament number:	54
Question number:	12900 (2026)
Question asked:	07 Apr 2026
Member asking:	Debbie Ngarewa-Packer
Portfolio:	Minister of Health
Minister replying:	Hon Simeon Brown
Answer received:	18 Apr 2026
Status:	Question Answered
Reply type:	Reply
Document ID:	WQ_12900_2026
Document guid:	bd0a61b4-be67-4cca-a803-961d5b701fae

12900 (2026). Debbie Ngarewa-Packer to the Minister of Health: What steps, if any, is the Government taking to address pharmacist workforce shortages in Whanganui and surrounding districts?

Hon Simeon Brown: I am advised that several initiatives designed to bolster the community pharmacy sector are underway. These initiatives include allowing pharmacists who emigrate from overseas to apply for a Residence Class visa by adding the role the Immigration "Green List"; expanding the voluntary bonding scheme intake, and funding a 12-month, post-qualification program allowing senior pharmacy technicians to conduct final accuracy checks on dispensed medications.