NZ MS Research Trust

New Zealand Multiple Sclerosis Research Trust

The New Zealand Multiple Sclerosis Research Trust (NZMSRT) was established in 2015. The Trust aims to stimulate, co-ordinate and fund New Zealand-based research into the cause, prevention, treatment, alleviation and cure of multiple sclerosis (MS), and to obtain and disseminate research findings.

There is much about MS in New Zealand that is unknown, and research gives us the opportunity to make life better for people living with the condition here in New Zealand.

Why was the Trust established?

The Trust was established by co-founders, Multiple Sclerosis New Zealand (MSNZ) and the MS Auckland Regional Trust.
Before the establishment of the Trust, research for MS had been one of many research subjects within a wide range of neurological or other health conditions.

To make a real difference to New Zealanders living with MS, MS research needs a dedicated Trust to collaborate with research partners to fund new research opportunities.

Aims of the NZMSRT

The Trust’s aim is to stimulate and support New Zealand-based research into all aspects of Multiple Sclerosis (MS), and to disseminate research findings to educate New Zealanders about MS. It achieves this by:

  • Collaborating with partners (including MSNZ) to fund research into all aspects of MS.
  • Keeping New Zealanders up to date with research findings.

Grant Funds for Researchers

Researchers can apply to the NZMSRT for funding for a range of purposes, from funding research projects, to furthering education and expertise. More information about the grants available and how to apply can be found via the Trusts website.

Supporting Research

While MSNZ often undertakes research to inform our advocacy, the NZMSRT is the primary sponsor of MS research in Aotearoa New Zealand. If you are interested in supporting MS research we encourage you to support the NZMSRT directly.

For more information

The New Zealand Multiple Sclerosis Research Trust (NZMSRT) is dedicated to stimulating, coordinating, and supporting New Zealand-based research into the cause, prevention, treatment, alleviation, and cure of multiple sclerosis (MS). Established in 2015 with seed funding from MSNZ and the MS Auckland Regional Trust, NZMSRT was created to provide a dedicated focus for MS research in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Our Mission

NZMSRT’s mission is to:

  • Stimulate and support high-quality MS research in New Zealand.
  • Coordinate research efforts among universities, hospitals, and other research organisations.
  • Disseminate research findings to improve understanding and care for people with MS.
  • Collaborate with national and international partners to advance MS research.

Key Activities

Funding Research:

  • NZMSRT provides grants and funding for research projects focused on MS causes, prevention, treatment, and support.
  • The Trust supports both clinical and non-clinical research to address the unique needs of people with MS in New Zealand.

National MS Registry Feasibility Study:

  • NZMSRT is currently funding a feasibility study to explore the establishment of a national registry of all people with MS in New Zealand.
  • A national registry will help track prevalence, support equitable allocation of treatment resources, and evaluate the impact of treatments in the New Zealand population

Collaboration and Partnerships:

  • NZMSRT collaborates with MSNZ, universities, hospitals, and international research organisations to maximise the impact of its research investment.

Dissemination of Findings:

  • The Trust ensures that research findings are shared with the wider MS community, health professionals, and policy makers to inform best practice and improve outcomes for people with MS.

Why NZMSRT Matters?

New Zealand offers unique opportunities for MS research due to its diverse population and well-established health data systems. However, much about MS in New Zealand remains unknown. NZMSRT provides a central point for funding and coordinating research, helping to fill these knowledge gaps and improve the lives of people with MS in Aotearoa

How to Support NZMSRT?

Donations and Bequests

NZMSRT welcomes donations and bequests to help grow its research funding pool.

Research Partnerships

Researchers and organisations interested in collaborating with NZMSRT are encouraged to get in touch.

Community Engagement

NZMSRT values input from people with MS, their families, and community groups to help shape research priorities. pport research that addresses the unique needs of people with MS in Aotearoa.

Research