Cancer is the country’s single biggest cause of death. Most New Zealanders will have some experience of it – either personally or through a relative or friend.
More people are developing cancer – mainly because the population is growing and getting older.
Many cancers can be cured if they’re found and treated in time. It is estimated that in New Zealand, about 1 person in every 3 who gets cancer is cured.
Even if the cancer cannot be cured, more effective treatment means many people are now living longer.
Common cancers
- Bowel cancer
- Breast cancer
- Cervical cancer
- Lung cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Skin cancer, including melanoma
Cancer websites
Te Aho o Te Kahu, Cancer Control Agency
Te Aho o Te Kahu has been established to provide strong national leadership for, and oversight of, cancer control in Aotearoa, New Zealand.
Cancer Society
The Cancer Society of New Zealand is the country’s largest source of information about cancer and its effects. This website provides information on types of cancer, diagnosis, methods of treatment, advice on living with cancer, and local support services.
Bowel Cancer New Zealand
A nationwide, patient led organisation committed to reducing the impact of bowel cancer through awareness, education and support. This website provides information on symptoms, tests and treatment for bowel cancer.
Breast Cancer Aotearoa Coalition
A charity providing information, support and representation for those with breast cancer. This website covers breast cancer detection, treatment and care and includes links to others experiencing breast cancer.
Breast Cancer Foundation
The country’s leading breast cancer education and awareness organisation offering information on screening and early detection, diagnosis, treatment, including downloadable resources.
Leukaemia and Blood Cancer New Zealand
Leukaemia and Blood Cancer New Zealand is dedicated to supporting patients and their families living with leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma and related blood conditions.
Lung Foundation New Zealand
The Lung Foundation aim to promote awareness of lung disease. They provide information and support to those affected by lung cancer.
Melanoma New Zealand Melanoma New Zealand is a registered charitable trust. Its website provides information for people affected with melanoma.
Melanoma Network of New Zealand (MelNet)
A charitable trust for health professionals committed to reducing the incidence and impact of skin cancer in New Zealand
NeuroEndocrine Cancer New Zealand (formerly Unicorn Foundation) A national charity focused on supporting people with neuroendocrine cancer with education and support. They also work alongside health professionals’ to build knowledge and awareness of the disease.
Prostate Cancer Foundation of New Zealand
Here you can find detailed information on prostate cancer and treatments.
CanTeen
Support and information for young people with cancer, including a national peer support network and recreational programme.
Child Cancer Foundation
The Child Cancer Foundation provides ongoing practical, emotional and financial assistance to children with cancer, and their families.
KidsHealth – Childhood cancer
Information developed by the Starship Foundation and the Paediatric Society of New Zealand.
Better Health Channel
The Better Health Channel is a Victorian (Australia) State Government website that provides a wide range of health and medical information on conditions including cancer.
Find out more from the Ministry
Cancer data and statistics
This section is a central location for accessing cancer data and health statistics collected and produced by the Ministry of Health and wider health sector.
Tobacco control
Learn more about the Ministry’s work to reduce smoking prevalence and tobacco consumption.
