New Zealand Multiple Sclerosis Research Trust
The New Zealand Multiple Sclerosis Research Trust was established in 2015 to stimulating and supporting New Zealand-based research into the cause, prevention, treatment of Multiple Sclerosis (MS), and in the hope of ultimate cure, we obtain and share research findings in New Zealand and internationally.
New Zealand provides unique opportunities for MS researchers. There is so much about MS in New Zealand that is unknown. We have the opportunity to make life better for people with MS and the need is pressing.
What is Multiple Sclerosis?
MS is a disorder of the central nervous system (CNS) which includes the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves.
The CNS is responsible for our conscious and unconscious functioning, including movement and the response to sensations such as sight, touch and hearing. It directs these functions by sending its instructions in the form of electrical impulses to the appropriate sites along nerve fibres.
The term multiple sclerosis refers to multiple areas of scarring (sclerosis) scattered throughout the brain and spinal cord…
Multiple Sclerosis Research
Through its research and by strengthening international links with other MS organisations, the Trust is working to build a strong and respected NZ-based research capability that will make a real difference to the lives of people with MS here.
New Zealand Research
New Zealand provides unique opportunities for MS research. Every New Zealander has their own health identifier number enabling the accurate collection and tracking of information and the population base has a longitudinal spread that is significant in terms of MS research.
International Research
New Zealand provides unique opportunities for MS research. Every New Zealander has their own health identifier number enabling the accurate collection and tracking of information and the population base has a longitudinal spread that is significant in terms of MS research.
![](https://msresearch.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Screenshot-2024-05-30-162928.png)
Brain Health Seminar with Professor. Helmut Butzkueven.
Time Matters in Multiple Sclerosis: MS Brain Health Seminar You may often hear the words – Brain Health – related to MS, but what does this mean and how can patients, clinicians and MS organisations be proactive in protecting and preserving Brain Health? Multiple Sclerosis NZ, the New Zealand Multiple Sclerosis Research Trust and MS Auckland warmly welcome you to come listen to one of the world’s leading experts in MS Brain Health, Professor Helmut Butzkueven. Professor Butzkueven currently heads up the Department of Neuroscience at Monash University in Melbourne, is Managing Director of MSBase Foundation, Director of Neurology at Alfred Health, a Steering Committee Member with MS Brain Health and a leading MS specialist Neurologis. His last visit was in 2018, a pivotal moment in NZ’s MS history. His support was critical in MSNZs 8 years of advocacy calling on Pharmac to widen the DMT access criteria, achieving the criteria we see today In a public seminar, Professor Butzkueven will provide the latest information on: Join us on Thursday 11th July at Novotel Ellerslie, Auckland. Doors will open at 6.30pm. Complimentary canapes will be available and a cash bar. The seminar will begin at 7pm and conclude at 8pm with opportunities for mix and mingling. Tickets $10 + booking fee. Donations welcome and will support the cost of the event. Click here to register
![](https://msresearch.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/image-_online-exercise.jpg)
Full Online Access to the MS Get a Head Start Programme
This is for people diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis who are walking independently (EDSS 0-4) to take part in a 6-week online exercise and education programme, as part of a research study with AUT. For more information download the following Download Participant information sheet Download MS Get a Head Start Programme flyer