History

The New Zealand Medical Association was formed more than a century ago. Its inaugural meeting was held in Otago in 1886. Ten years later, the Association became affiliated with the British Medical Association (BMA), and remained a branch of the BMA until 1967.

A year after regaining its independence, the NZMA received a grant of arms from Her Majesty's College of Arms. The shield shows the staff with the single serpent that represents the Rod of Aesculapius, the Greek God of Medicine, a fleam, which the medieval physician used to open veins for blood-letting, and the Southern Cross.

The Association's motto is Scientia et Concordia: Knowledge and Accord.

The NZMA retains strong links with the British, Australian and many other medical associations throughout the world. The NZMA is also a member of the World Medical Association.

Since its inception in 1886 the NZMA has been at the forefront of health sector advocacy.