Canterbury DHB CEO David Meates said that while the Christchurch earthquakes had a profound effect on the population, they had also helped to redefine health business models for the future.

“The Canterbury response has been a ‘whole of system’ one. We have one budget, which we use to provide the right care at the right place and the right time. No-one in Canterbury’s health sector would go back to the way it was before.”

John Kirwan spoke about his work as a mental health advocate and told the healthcare industry to be bold and courageous.

"New Zealand is all about being the best that we can be.  We are up against it sometimes as a small country, but we keep going and we keep winning."

Geraint Martin rallied the crowd and asked people to support and keep healthcare innovation in NZ. 

"Healthcare is something that cannot be bought and off-shored to someone else.  Let's make it really sing and create value for New Zealand.”

Professor Jonathon Gray spoke about Ko Awatea and was delighted at the local and international interest shown in the Centre.  His aim is to make Ko Awatea the place to come for health and healthcare innovation. 

Associate Minister of Health Dr Jonathon Coleman said the Rugby World cup had been a huge opportunity for New Zealanders to showcase our wonderful country and what we have there in terms of innovation. 

The evening was a great success and provided a wonderful networking opportunity for attendees. 

Thanks to NZTE for providing information for this article.