The Geographic Classification for Health

A novel rurality classification designed specifically for health research and policy purposes

StoryMap Developed by the GCH research team at University of Otago and University of Waikato

The Geographic Classification for Health (GCH) is a rural-urban geographic classification designed to allow New Zealand’s health researchers and policy makers to accurately monitor rural-urban variations in health outcomes.

For more information about how the GCH was developed please see our  blog site 

Our  GCH Concordance Files  are available for download

A peer-reviewed journal article outlining the development of the GCH is published, Open Access, in the  New Zealand Medical Journa l

The interactive map below shows the GCH rurality classification for each SA1 in Aotearoa New Zealand and the location of health facilities in the Ministry of Health's 'Facility Code Table' (updated on 1st October 2022). **

Click on the map to explore your local area. You can use the search bar in the top left corner to look for a specific street address.

You can also use the filter, in the left-hand sidebar, to select different combinations of GCH categories or health facilities.

 ** NB: We do not guarantee the accuracy of the health facility information and any queries, updates, or request for modifications should be directed to the Ministry of Health.