Music and Whānau Voices Drive Health New Zealand’s New Childhood Immunisation Campaign

Health New Zealand has launched the second phase of a national campaign designed to empower whānau and address falling childhood immunisation rates through the power of shared experiences. Named 'Story to Tell,' the initiative represents a shift away from traditional clinical directives, focusing instead on building trust through creative mediums. As reported by RNZ and Waatea News on 25 September 2026, the campaign is anchored by an original waiata written and performed by iconic Ardijah vocalist Betty-Anne Monga. The song draws direct inspiration from the lived experiences of three specific whānau—Manukaroa, Tane, and Gabby. Monga, who raised four children as a teenage mother, ensured her own family’s voices were part of the kaupapa by involving her daughter and sons in the recording studio to provide vocals. The project features 11 different advertisements across digital, television, and social platforms, alongside the full waiata and documentary-style stories from the participating whānau. Dr Ramon Pink (Te Aupouri, Te Rarawa), Health NZ South Island’s regional clinical director of public health medicine, noted that the campaign aims to help families see themselves in the stories of others. By highlighting those who navigated challenges, such as initial hesitation followed by the decision to vaccinate after seeing the effects of diseases like measles, the campaign seeks to start meaningful conversations centered on aroha and whakapapa. Health New Zealand data highlights the necessity of the initiative. While Māori childhood immunisation rates for two-year-olds rose to 71.3 percent in June 2026—up from 60.6 percent in September 2024—they still trail the national average of 83.7 percent. The government has set a target of 95 percent coverage by 2030, a return to the high-80 percent levels seen prior to the pandemic. Dr Pink acknowledged that families are currently balancing significant pressures, including healthcare access, mistrust, and cost-of-living stressors, which can impact timely vaccinations. The 'Story to Tell' approach focuses on providing information through trusted voices, allowing people to navigate their decisions in their own time. By using music and storytelling, the programme encourages whānau to seek advice from health professionals they trust to ensure tamariki are protected according to the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule. For Monga, the project serves as a testament to the power of music to carry vital messages regarding the health and future of the next generation.