Welcome to Brain Research New Zealand – A Centre of Research Excellence
Through world-class research, improved clinical practice, training, and public education, we are working hard to combat ageing-related brain disorders and lessen their impact on individuals, their whanau, and New Zealand as a whole.
Our vision? Lifelong brain health for all New Zealanders.
Our Priorities
By uniting New Zealand’s best neuroscientists and clinicians, and working in partnership with the community, here’s what we aim to achieve:
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
Better health outcomes for older people through community partnerships and communication of our research.
RECOGNITION
National and international recognition of our research and expertise.
PREVENTION, DETECTION & TREATMENTS
Improved strategies to prevent, detect and slow the progression of age-related neurological disorders.
CLINICAL PRACTICE
Improved clinical practice by translating scientific knowledge into treatments, strategies and care pathways.
LEADERSHIP
Increased scientific, clinical, translational and leadership capabilities.
MĀORI HEALTH
Improved Māori health and wellbeing during ageing, incorporating Matauranga into research, and training Māori neuroscientists and clinicians.

Our Challenge
New Zealand’s rapidly ageing population is bringing with it ever-increasing numbers of people with ageing-related brain disorders.
ONE IN FOUR
By 2036 one in four New Zealanders aged over 65 will be affected by brain disorders like stroke, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s diseases. These disorders – currently without cure – result in debilitating neurological impairments, loss of independence and a need for significant on-going healthcare. By 2030, dementia alone will cost Kiwis a staggering $2.7 billion, not to mention untold physical and emotional strain.
UNITING OUR BEST
By bringing together New Zealand’s best, we can undertake the high quality, intensive research needed to tackle this national health and economic challenge head on.