Each month, we host an MND Connect Group at the MND NZ national office in Royal Oak — a relaxed, supportive space where people affected by motor neurone disease can connect, talk, and spend time with others who understand. In July, to honour MND Action Month, we’re doing something a little different. On Wednesday 01 July, our MND Connect … Read more
Behind a lime-green door, musicians Chris Kemp and Kendall Todd are choosing creativity, connection and purpose – even as motor neurone disease (MND) changes everything. Chris Kemp (55) and Kendall Todd’s (38) lime-green front door feels like a Narnia-esque portal into a magical musicians’ haven. Inside, a Ramones’ vinyl-record creates a rock’n’roll kitchen rangehood. A … Read more
The first of June marks the official start of MND Action Month — and people across Aotearoa are already stepping up to make time count for those living with motor neurone disease (MND). From hosting Cuppa Teas to taking on the Ice Bucket Challenge, New Zealanders are raising funds, starting conversations, and showing that MND … Read more
In July 2025, the hills of Karaka came alive with the clink of cups raised for a ‘Cuppa Tea for MND’, the squeals of an MND Ice Bucket Challenge, the calls of a bingo master, the quiet plink of teardrops…
The teacups and snack plates that carry aroha and purpose It began with a holiday pottery class — a young girl at the wheel, her mum by her side, both falling quietly in love with clay. Over time, that spark became JMT Ceramics: a mother–daughter studio grounded in patience, creativity, and connection. When Michelle’s partner lost his father to motor … Read more
June is MND Action Month — a time to act, raise awareness, and make time count for people in Aotearoa living with motor neurone disease (MND), and for the whānau who support them. MND is a progressive, incurable, and ultimately terminal disease. It gradually takes away a person’s ability to walk, talk, eat — and … Read more
Three Auckland sisters are on a mission to make time count for people living with MND in memory of Carl Cavanagh (pictured left) who died of the disease in August 2025, aged 56. Fundraising for research and support of people living with motor neurone disease (MND) is a family affair for Carl’s wife Lisa Cavanagh … Read more
For many workplaces, 2026 is already shaping up to be a year where wellbeing, genuine connection, and meaningful community involvement matter more than ever. At MND NZ, we’re inviting organisations across the motu to take part in something that brings all of these threads together. From 2–6 October 2026, we’re hosting Trek for MND – … Read more
Relax with a craft beer at a quiz night in the Sprig and Fern Thorndon during November and you’ll be raising funds to make time count for people living with motor neurone disease (MND). Tuesday nights are pub quiz nights at the Sprig and Fern Thorndon. The good folk there have been running quizzes for … Read more
We’re thrilled to launch the Trek for MND: Abel Tasman Adventure — five days, 55 km of golden beaches, native forest, and rugged coastline, all to raise vital funds for Motor Neurone Disease NZ. Early bird registration is open now: sign up before 16 November 2025 to save $150. About the trek In October 2026, … Read more
Behind every campaign, story, and fundraiser at Motor Neurone Disease NZ is a team of people working with purpose, care, and conviction. In our Staff Spotlight series, we introduce you to the people behind the cause — those who bring connection and heart to their mahi. This month, we meet Marketing & Fundraising Manager Laura … Read more
Motor neurone disease (MND) research is advancing at pace, with new discoveries bringing hope to those affected. The team at the University of Auckland’s MND Research Lab is working to uncover the genetic causes of MND in New Zealanders, develop targeted therapies, and improve support for families. Thanks to the generosity of MND NZ and … Read more