The mesh, which is both absorbable and non-absorbable, is used after some surgeries to provide extra support, particularly for treating hernias and prolapses.
However, some patients have suffered serious side effects from surgical mesh, which has led to the Ministry of Health introducing new procedures for its use and monitoring patients who have had issues with it.
The forums, which advocacy group Mesh Down Under have helped organise, came as a response to the findings of a survey of patients, ministry director-general Ashley Bloomfield said.
"We want to hear directly from those who've been harmed and this will guide further action needed to address the ongoing impact on people affected and prevent future harm."
The forums are being facilitated by a team from Victoria University of Wellington, and will be run along the same principles as restorative justice meetings.
"As director-general of health, I am committed to doing what I can to ensure New Zealanders who've been harmed by surgical mesh are supported and their concerns addressed," Dr Bloomfield said.
There will be two Dunedin forums, on the morning and afternoon of August 6.
A website has been set up for affected people to register to take part.
