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.

On The Up: Mātai researchers developing new MRI method with better multiple sclerosis detection
Exciting news for the MS community in New Zealand! We’re thrilled to announce that the NZ Multiple Sclerosis Research Trust (NZMSRT) jointly is funding with the JN & HB Williams Foundation the Mātai Medical Research Institute in Gisborne a research project to improve the diagnosis and monitoring of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). This innovative project focuses on proving Mātai’s Ultra High Contrast MRI technique, which can potentially detect MS and other brain diseases more accurately and earlier than before. This cutting-edge approach also aims to refine existing MRI sequences, improving the detection and monitoring for those affected by MS. We’re proud to be supporting this groundbreaking research and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on people’s lives! You can read an article featured all about the research on the Gisborne Herald.

Podcast: MS Nurses at ECTRIMS 2024
Nurses play a specialised and unique role in the journey of people living with multiple sclerosis (MS). At ECTRIMS 2024, MS nurses showcased their experiences and insights into how to effectively support patients. In this episode, host Brett Drummond of MSTranslate talks with veteran MS nurses K-J Lazarus of Austin Health in Australia and Fiona d’Young of the Auckland Hospital in New Zealand. NZ Multiple Sclerosis Research Trust proud to fund Fiona to attend At ECTRIMS 2024. Listen Podcast