Australian Health Ministers, and New Zealand's Health Minister Pete Hodgson are gathering in Wellington today to attend the Australian Health Ministers’ Conference. New Zealand's presentation will focus on childhood obesity.

This is the first time the conference will be New Zealand-based, and Pete Hodgson’s first time as its host. Previously the conference has only been held in Australia.

“These forums provide us with an opportunity to discuss issues of common interest and for bilateral meetings to be held with state and federal ministers.

“New Zealand and Australia share an urgent concern around childhood obesity. Improving nutrition, increasing physical activity, and reducing obesity are vital for all of us – but especially for our young. I look forward to some of the innovative community programmes that we have here in New Zealand being showcased to our neighbours. ” said Pete Hodgson.

Photo opportunity: Australian Health Ministers’ Conference 7 April

The Ministers will review promotional material from the 5+A Day programme which operates in many schools throughout New Zealand and wear tee shirts that promote the healthy eating and physical activity message.

www.5aday.co.nz

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The following health ministers met at The Wellesley Club, Wellington:

• The Hon Pete Hodgson, New Zealand Minister of Health
• The Hon Tony Abbot, Australian Minister for Health
• Mr Ken Douglas, representing the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs
• The Hon John Hatzistergos, New South Wales Minister for Health
• The Hon Bronwyn Pike, Victoria Minister for Health
• The Hon Stephen Robertson, Queensland Minister for Health
• The Hon Jim McGinty Western Australia Minister for Health
• The Hon John Hill, South Australia Minister for Health
• Dr Martyn Forrest, representing Tasmanian for the Minister for Health & Human Services
• Mr Simon Corbell, Australian Capital Territory Minister for Health