New research foundation focuses on diabetes in New Zealand

Aotearoa’s largest not-for-profit funder of diabetes research has officially launched. The Diabetes New Zealand Research Foundation (DNZRF) funds world-class New Zealand research, by New Zealand researchers, to improve outcomes for New Zealanders living with diabetes.

DNZRF’s mission is to end the significant harm caused by diabetes in New Zealand. Diabetes is the country’s largest and fastest growing health crisis, with 300,000 people living with this condition. DNZRF aims to find impactful ways to prevent, manage and treat this chronic disease, via research.

As well as helping people with diabetes to live well, the Foundation is committed to supporting, developing and retaining New Zealand’s robust research community.

The DNZRF Board is comprised of industry-leading experts and professionals, who are committed to identifying and supporting impactful research. Trustees include researchers, diabetes specialists, academics and those with a personal connection to diabetes. They are Sir Ralph Norris, Catherine Taylor, Dr Rick Cutfield, Dr Helen Lunt and Professor Jeremy Krebs.

Chairman of the board Sir Ralph Norris says DNZRF wants to help continue the incredible advances New Zealand researchers have made in the field of diabetes.

“Diabetes research has the power to change and save lives. Health research is a costly business but as a small country with specific and urgent needs when it comes to diabetes, there has never been a better time to invest in diabetes research.”

The Diabetes New Zealand Research Foundation’s aim is to collaborate and work in partnership with like-minded organisations – Diabetes New Zealand, Edgar National Centre for Diabetes & Obesity Research, The Centre for Endocrine, Diabetes and Obesity Research, New Zealand Society for the Study of Diabetes, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and the Healthier Lives – He Oranga Hauora National Science Challenge amongst others.

As a not-for-profit organisation, DNZRF is reliant on the support of generous individuals, trusts and companies, to provide funding for vital diabetes research.

To find out more or donate to DNZRF visit www.dnzrf.org.nz