The Dementia Mate Wareware Action Plan 2026–2031 sets out a clear path for how Aotearoa New Zealand can better support people living with dementia | mate wareware, their care partners, and whānau.

With the number of people affected expected to more than double from 83,000 in 2025 to 170,000 by 2050, the plan calls for urgent action and sustainable investment. It builds on the foundations of the first national plan (2020–2025) and continues important mahi already underway, while setting new priorities for the next five years.

Vision

Dementia | mate wareware is prevented as much as possible, and people living with dementia mate | wareware and their families and whānau get the help and support they need.

What the plan focuses on

The refreshed plan identifies five priority areas for change:

• Promote brain health – create environments and opportunities that make healthy choices easier and reduce known risk factors.
• Timely diagnosis and planning – ensure dementia | mate wareware is part of routine primary care, with equitable access to accurate diagnosis and management.
• Community support – provide culturally appropriate, person- and whānau-centred services across the motu, with recognition and respite for care partners.
• Workforce support – strengthen training, resources and accredited learning pathways for both health professionals and whānau supporters.
• Effective governance – embed strong national leadership, consistent data collection, and clear outcome measures to track progress.

Continuing work

The plan also builds on important initiatives from the first Action Plan, including kaupapa Māori research, new respite and navigation services, law reform for supported decision-making, and enhanced end-of-life care tools.

Why it matters

Dementia | mate wareware already affects tens of thousands of New Zealanders, and its impact will continue to grow. Early support makes a difference – helping people live well for longer, reducing pressure on hospitals and aged care, and strengthening whānau.

The Dementia Mate Wareware Action Plan 2026–2031 is a roadmap for government, health services, and communities to work together to create the consistent, accessible support New Zealanders need.

Read the Dementia Mate Wareware Action Plan 2026–2031.