Auckland recently hosted the MS Nurses Australasia (MSNA) 2025 Conference, bringing together MS nurses, clinicians, and researchers from across Australasia. MSNZ’s Clinical Lead, Rachael Hofmann attended and shares the below highlights and learnings with us.
Under the theme “Weaving Knowledge – Strengthening Connections,” the 3-day event celebrated collaboration, shared learning, and the growing leadership role of MS nurses in improving care for people with multiple sclerosis.
It opened with a moving performance by Auckland’s Konini Kapa Haka troupe, reminding attendees of the value of cultural connection and partnership in MS care.
The conference showcased the latest advances in multiple sclerosis care, emphasising personalised, whole-of-life support for people living with MS. Early sessions explored progressive MS and women’s health, while day two highlighted the impact of nurse-led research across Australasia, from improving intimacy and bladder wellness to developing more integrated and collaborative care models. Speakers also looked ahead to emerging innovations, including the role of artificial intelligence in improving patient care and the importance of nurses leading research and quality improvement. The final day focused on workforce development, the benefits of exercise, updates to MS diagnostic criteria, and the importance of managing heart and metabolic health as part of comprehensive MS care.
Key sessions covered:
- progressive MS,
- menopause and women’s health,
- intimacy and bladder wellness,
- pain management,
- and the role of AI and research leadership in shaping future care.
- Updates on the 2025 McDonald criteria,
- exercise in MS,
- and vascular comorbidities ensured delegates left with the latest global insights.
I was pleased to see many of the above topics being discussed and encourage you to read our resources if you’d like to learn more.
Key Messages for New Zealand
- MS nurses, community support organisations, and allied health professionals are leaders in care and innovation. Their expertise and connection with the MS community make them central to improving outcomes.
- Cultural connection matters. The integration of local culture and partnership in the opening ceremony was a reminder of the power of culturally grounded care in Aotearoa.
- Teamwork and collaboration are vital. The conference encouraged stronger ties between MS nurses, allied health professionals, neurologists, and community organisations.
- The future is evidence driven. From AI tools to exercise science, nurses and allied health are leading the way in bringing research into real-world practice.
Closing Thoughts
For the New Zealand MS Community, the conference affirmed the importance of specialist MS nurses, cross-Tasman collaboration, and evidence-based, person-centred care that supports people with MS to live well at every stage.
Pictured: some of the NZ MS Nurses at the 2025 MSNA Conference. Huge congratulations to Sharon (pictured centre), awarded Lifetime Membership for her remarkable contribution to MS nursing and decades of leadership and support across New Zealand.