Cancer patients and people with chronic illnesses are being prioritised, in New Zealand's new nationwide health plan.

Te Pae Tata is the first nationwide plan made jointly by Te Whatu Ora, and Te Aka Whai Ora - the Maori Health Authority.

Health Minister Andrew Little says having the agencies working as equal partners is a "game-changer".

It puts into action funding from this year's Budget, increasing health spending by 40 per cent to 24-billion-dollars.

The plan prioritises workforce and workplace issues, as well as specific commitments to improve outcomes in maternity and young children, people with cancer, people living with chronic health conditions, and people living with mental distress.

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