MSNZ Funded Research
MSNZ Research
Multiple Sclerosis NZ is committed to sharing evidence-based research that improves the lives of people living with MS in Aotearoa New Zealand and promoting the work of researchers and funders.
In 2015, Multiple Sclerosis NZ and the MS Auckland Regional Trust founded the New Zealand Multiple Sclerosis Research Trust. The NZ MS Research Trust is now the primary funder of MS Research in NZ who we work with closely and support their mission.
Does Multiple Sclerosis NZ fund research?
Multiple Sclerosis NZ commissions research which directly enhances our knowledge and evidence-base to strengthen our advocacy. Research informs our calls for improvements in access to MS treatments, services and care, improving the lives of those affected and can assist in giving a specific NZ context.
We support a range of smaller research projects, including studies on symptom management, access to care, and the experiences of Māori, Pacific, and Asian communities living with MS.
We also collaborate with universities and hospitals to support and promote engagement in research that addresses the unique needs of people with MS in Aotearoa.
Findings from Multiple Sclerosis NZ funded research have informed policy, improved access to care, and helped shape the services and support available to people with MS and their whānau.
To enable this research, we seek funding from the NZ MS Research Trust, pharmaceutical companies and other funding providers.
Current research supported by Multiple Sclerosis NZ
Project Name:
Using the Integrated Data Infrastructure (IDI) to identify epidemiological changes in MS
Project Investigator:
Natalia Boven, Compass Research Centre, University of Auckland
Project Objectives:
- To use the IDI to provide an update to the 2006 MS Prevalence Study.
- To identify changes overtime in the epidemiology of MS in NZ.
- To identify areas of regional inequity, poorer outcomes and quality of life, areas of high need, deprivation, lack of access to services.
- To inform MSNZs advocacy priorities.
- Provide a framework to re-run the study in future years to benchmark NZ progress.
Expected Project Completion: Late 2025
Research funded, commissioned or supported by MSNZ
Epidemiological Studies:
Research to track the rising rates of MS across New Zealand, with a focus on understanding health disparities and barriers to care.
- MS Prevalence Study (2006)
- MS Incidence Study (2012-14)
- Identifying multiple sclerosis in linked administrative health data in Aotearoa New Zealand (Natalia Boven et al, 2025) (current)
Treatment Outcomes:
Studies evaluating the effectiveness of disease-modifying therapies and other treatments in the New Zealand context.
- The Cost Effectiveness of Ocrelizumab for Treatment of Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis in Aotearoa New Zealand from Healthcare and Societal Perspectives (Dr Richard Milne, Health Economist)
- Review of Current Research for Disease Modifying Treatments for, and Symptom Management of Multiple Sclerosis (Kerry Walker, 2017) (download report)
Patient Experience and Support:
Research exploring the needs and experiences of people with MS, their families, and carers, with a focus on improving support services.
- Economic Burden of MS (NZIER, 2022)
MSNZ is proud to support research that advances understanding, treatment, and quality of life for people living with multiple sclerosis. Here you can explore the projects we’ve helped to fund and the difference this research is making for the MS community in New Zealand and beyond.
MSNZ is committed to supporting research that improves the lives of people living with multiple sclerosis (MS) in New Zealand. Through targeted funding, partnerships, and advocacy, MSNZ helps advance our understanding of MS and supports innovations in care and treatment.
Overview
MSNZ funds and supports research projects that address key challenges for people with MS, including diagnosis, treatment, symptom management, and quality of life. Our research funding is designed to complement the work of national and international partners, ensuring that New Zealand remains at the forefront of MS research and care.
Current MSNZ-Funded Research
National MS Registry Feasibility Study
- SNZ, in partnership with the New Zealand Multiple Sclerosis Research Trust (NZMSRT), is funding a feasibility study into the establishment of a national registry of all people with MS in New Zealand.
- This registry will help researchers track MS prevalence, support equitable allocation of treatment resources, and evaluate the impact of treatments in the New Zealand population.
Other Research Initiatives
- MSNZ supports a range of smaller research projects, including studies on symptom management, access to care, and the experiences of Māori, Pacific, and Asian communities living with MS.
- MSNZ also collaborates with universities and hospitals to support research that addresses the unique needs of people with MS in Aotearoa.
Past MSNZ-Funded Research
Examples of Previous Projects
- MS Prevalence and Incidence Studies: Research to track the rising rates of MS across New Zealand, with a focus on understanding health disparities and barriers to care.
- Treatment Outcomes: Studies evaluating the effectiveness of disease-modifying therapies and other treatments in the New Zealand context.
- Patient Experience and Support: Research exploring the needs and experiences of people with MS, their families, and carers, with a focus on improving support services.
Impact of Past Research
- Findings from MSNZ-funded research have informed policy, improved access to care, and helped shape the services and support available to people with MS and their whānau.
How MSNZ Supports Research
- Funding: MSNZ provides grants to researchers and supports collaborative projects with universities, hospitals, and community organisations.
- Partnerships: MSNZ works closely with the NZMSRT, government agencies, and other research funders to maximise the impact of our research investment.
- Advocacy: MSNZ uses research findings to advocate for better policies and services for people with MS in New Zealand.
How to Get Involved
- Researchers: If you are interested in applying for MSNZ research funding, please contact MSNZ or visit our website for current opportunities.
- Community: MSNZ welcomes input and engagement from people with MS, their families, and community groups in shaping our research priorities and priorities.