In 2025, Te Tupu Whakaritoritorito – the Psychiatry Interest Forum program in New Zealand Aotearoa – supported over 19 activities and connected with 800+ students and prevocational doctors to further their interest in psychiatry careers.

From webinars to the Introduction to Psychiatry short course, in person programs at Congress and the New Zealand Conference, and Insights into Psychiatry workshop, the program created space for members to network, ask questions and learn about the breadth of psychiatry. Over 90 members, including 11 Māori and Pasifika members, participated in these events.

A significant milestone was the launch of its Te Reo Māori name, ‘Te Tupu Whakaritorito’, gifted and supported by Te Kaunihera committee.

It was also a remarkable year to continue sponsorships to College Faculty and Section conferences as well as external conferences with student associations, Te Ora and Te Oranga conferences.

PIF has grown to over 744 members in New Zealand, including 73 Māori and 38 Pasifika members. Notably, 50% of New Zealand trainees who entered the RANZCP Fellowship Training Program in 2025 were former members of the PIF.

We thank College President, Dr Astha Tomar; President Elect and Chair of the PIF Advisory Group, Dr Angelo Virgona; members of the PIF Advisory Group, Te Kaunihera and Tu Te Akaaka Roa for their continued guidance and support to the Te Tupu Whakaritorito program. A very special thanks also to all members who contributed and participated in the program.

We now look forward to building on this momentum in 2026, creating even more opportunities for aspiring psychiatrists.

Highlights from the annual surveys:

• 84% of respondents indicated increased interest in choosing psychiatry or likelihood or pursuing psychiatry career after taking part in a PIF facilitated event.
• 95% of respondents indicated an increase in their knowledge after taking part in a PIF facilitated event.
• 75% of respondents indicated that PIF events helped clarify stigmas, misconceptions or negative attitudes about psychiatry that they previously held.
• 85% of respondents rated their experience at the PIF events as 'Excellent' or ‘Very good’.

Hear from program participants: 

“The Congress also offered a chance to meet inspiring psychiatrists, trainees, and fellow students who generously shared their experiences and advice. The networking events facilitated genuine conversations, and it was energising to be surrounded by others who are passionate about mental health and its future”. 

Program participant at Congress, Gold Coast

“The presentations about the training programme was really helpful. It helps me prepare for my future, and see if it is suitable for my lifestyle and goals outside of medicine. Also, the Q&A sessions with the speakers helped me feel more comfortable to ask questions that I could not ask during the presentations”.

Program participant at Insights into Psychiatry Workshop, Wellington

‘It was valuable to connect, share experiences, and build a sense of community across Aotearoa. Hearing about the different journeys and perspectives of others reinforced the importance of collaboration and support within the PIF network.’

Program participants at NZ Conference, Dunedin