The New Zealand Healthcare Chaplains’ Association exists to support and strengthen its members in their vital work across the healthcare sector, providing professional spiritual and pastoral care through accredited chaplaincy across hospitals, clinics, hospices, aged care and community mental health services. It advocates for the role of chaplains and spiritual care practitioners at a national level, ensuring the spiritual, emotional, and cultural needs of patients, families, and staff are recognised and respected within healthcare settings.

For its members, the Association provides professional development opportunities, communities of practice, and guidance on best practice. Through regular communication, resources, and events, NZHCA provides connection, shared learning, and encouragement, helping chaplains sustain both their professional growth and personal wellbeing.

Every two years, the New Zealand Healthcare Chaplains’ Association hosts a national conference, bringing together chaplains and spiritual care practitioners from across the country. This significant event not only includes the Association’s Annual General Meeting but also provides a rich programme of keynote speakers, workshops, and reflective practice sessions. In alternate years, the AGM is held online. The conference is designed to strengthen professional skills, explore emerging issues in healthcare, and nurture personal and spiritual growth. Above all, it serves as a vital space for connection, collaboration, and renewal within the diverse chaplaincy community.

The Association delivers a range of quarterly professional webinars on a range of topics relevant to chaplaincy and spiritual care practice.

The NZHCA offers online communities of practice for chaplains and spiritual care practitioners working in specialist areas such as mental health, aged care, and hospice among others. The communities themselves determine the frequency of the meetings and are led with support from the Association.