We’re proud to share that Motor Neurone Disease NZ has once again been named the official charity partner for the 2026 New Zealand Masters Games, taking place in Ōtepoti Dunedin from 31 January to 9 February 2026. The NZ Masters Games is the largest and longest-running multi-sport festival for Masters athletes in Aotearoa, and this renewed partnership … Read more
Minister Louise Upston has announced major changes to the Disability Support System (DSS), restoring flexibility and control to disabled people and carers. These updates, taking effect in early 2026, mark a significant shift towards recognising the wellbeing of carers and ensuring fairer access to support across Aotearoa. What’s changing Why this matters for the MND … Read more
Motor Neurone Disease NZ welcomes the appointment of Professor Hanneke Hulst as the next Director of the Centre for Brain Research (CBR) at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland. An internationally respected clinical neuroscientist based at the University of Leiden in the Netherlands, Professor Hulst will begin her role in December 2025. Her research focuses … Read more
A research initiative led by Associate Professor Emma Scotter (Centre for Brain Research, The University of Auckland), Dr Richard Roxburgh (Neurogenetics Clinic, Auckland City Hospital), and collaborators are recruiting for a study of the genetics of motor neurone disease in New Zealand. Recruitment update They are no longer recruiting people with sporadic MND (without a … Read more
The 2025 MND Insight Research study — formerly known as the MND Insight Survey — has reached a major milestone, thanks to the dedication of our MND community. This collaborative research effort has produced a rich dataset that sheds light on the lived experience of motor neurone disease in Aotearoa New Zealand. Led by Dr … 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
Wayne Richards is one of many New Zealanders living with motor neurone disease (MND) — and one of many who show us what resilience really looks like. We’re sharing Wayne’s story to highlight the everyday strength, humour, and perspective that shape our community. His message is simple but powerful: tough days don’t take away who … 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
Join us for one of two MND Insight Survey webinars, where we’ll introduce the MND Insight Survey 2025, explain why it matters, and answer any questions you have. These sessions are not the survey itself but an opportunity to learn more before it launches. The MND Insight Survey 2025 is led by Dr Natalie Gauld, … Read more
The Hewitt whānau is proud to announce two special golf fundraisers, organised in memory of Norm Hewitt, a beloved All Black and rugby stalwart, who passed away in 2024 after living with motor neurone disease (MND). These events are dedicated to supporting Motor Neurone Disease New Zealand (MND NZ), raising vital funds for research, advocacy, … Read more
We’re thrilled to announce that registrations are now open for the 2025 Walk to Defeat MND! This is always our biggest fundraising event of the year and crucial for ensuring we can continue our work. But it’s about far more than just money: it’s an opportunity for us to come together as a community of … Read more
At Motor Neurone Disease New Zealand (MND NZ), we are proud to reflect on a year marked by progress, resilience, and unwavering commitment to our community. The release of our 2023/24 Annual Impact Report offers a snapshot of the strides we’ve made, the challenges we’ve faced, and our vision for a brighter future. A New … Read more