Help build a fairer heathier future for the Future of Health in Aotearoa, Be in to win part of our $3000 Prize Pool*
Te Papa Hauora Christchurch Health Precinct and the UC Centre for Entrepreneurship are providing tertiary students across Canterbury the opportunity to help shape a fairer and healthier future for Aotearoa New Zealand.
This challenge invites students to explore how might we improve the healthcare system so that people receive the right care, at the right time, in the right place!
Participants will work on some key challenges facing our health sector, working in teams to develop innovative solutions.
Potential areas for innovation include:
Technology – such as telehealth, AI-assisted triage, or digital health tools.
Community and prevention initiatives – such as health education, early intervention, or support for vulnerable populations.
Service and system redesign – such as new models of care, improved care coordination, or expanded after-hours services.
Explore how technology, community engagement, service improvement, prevention, or new models of care could transform the way healthcare is delivered across Aotearoa New Zealand.
The context
Populations are ageing, patients have increasingly complex and chronic needs, social isolation and vulnerability is more common, and mental health needs are increasing.
Globally, emergency departments and after-hours healthcare services are experiencing increasing pressure from growing demand, workforce shortages, and patients seeking care for conditions that could potentially be managed elsewhere.
The innovation opportunity
Addressing these challenges requires us to think beyond hospitals and reimagine how healthcare services, technology, communities, and people work together to create a more connected, accessible, and preventative health system.
We invite you to explore bold, evidence-based solutions that improve how people navigate and access healthcare.
Rather than focusing solely on treating illness, imagine a future health system that prioritises prevention, empowers communities, leverages technology and data, improves care coordination, and ensures people can access the right care at the right time and place.
Think beyond the hospital and consider the entire healthcare system:
- Better healthcare navigation and triage systems.
- Telehealth and digital health solutions.
- Community-based and preventive care models.
- Early identification and support for vulnerable populations.
- Improved integration between primary care, urgent care, pharmacies, and hospitals.
- Predictive analytics and AI-assisted decision support.
- Accessible healthcare outside traditional clinic hours.
- Mobile healthcare clinics for underserved communities
- Patient education and self-management tools.
Disrupt Challenge Structure
*Total cash prize pool - awarded amongst winning teams and subject to terms & conditions
By participating in the Future of Health Disrupt Challenge, you will attend a kick-off session on Wednesday where you will begin exploring the challenge, meet your team, and prepare for an intensive and immersive weekend. During the weekend, you will work to deeply understand the problem, develop innovative solutions, and present your ideas to a panel of judges.
This experience will provide you with:
Opportunities to apply your studies to real world challenges;
Ability to connect with industry partners and mentors;
Connections with other students from across different disciplines;
A practical extracurricular experience for your C.V.
During the Challenge, you will work in a multidisciplinary team of 3-5 students from across the region to tackle one of three Challenge questions set out by Te Papa Hauora. These will be revealed at our Challenging kick off prior to the weekend. You can apply as an individual or as part of a team.
Throughout the Challenge, you will enjoy amazing free food, receive coaching from UCE staff as well as mentoring and input from health sector experts! At the end of the Challenge, your team will pitch your concept to a panel of judges and health experts.
The Future of Health Challenge is the perfect opportunity for you to meet new people, hone your skills, build your CV, and have a real impact in the world!
INTERESTED??
Registrations are now open!
For any questions, please contact uce@canterbury.ac.nz
Why sign up?
Work in a collaborative environment.
Meet interesting new people from a range of disciplines.
Develop your creativity, innovation, teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Build experience in creating a compelling, professional presentation.
Network with mentors and industry experts.
Have something meaningful to put on your CV.
Enjoy awesome food throughout!
Be in to win cash prizes!
Who should sign up?
This Challenge is designed for tertiary students of any discipline and any level (from first-year to post-grad) who live/study in the Canterbury region.
Do I need a team in advance?
If you already have a team, that’s great and you can register as a team (3 to 5 people max.). Otherwise, we will organise a team for you. All you need to do is register!
Who is running the Challenge?
The UC Centre for Entrepreneurship and Te Papa Hauora are working in partnership to deliver The Future of Health Challenge.
Key dates
Registrations Close: Sunday 26th July
Challenge Kick-off: Wednesday 28th July
Future of Health Challenge: 9am - 5pm on Saturday 1st & Sunday 2nd August 2026 - Held at Manawa in the Health Precinct
If you have any questions, feel free to email uce@canterbury.ac.nz
