Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa, the Centre for Pacific and Global Health at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland, has been designated a World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre for Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) and Climate Change.
As a WHO Collaborating Centre, the centre will contribute to regional and global efforts to strengthen research capacity, inform policy development, and support evidence‑based action on the health impacts of climate change and noncommunicable diseases, working closely with Pacific countries and international partners.
Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa Co‑Director Professor Sir Collin Tukuitonga says the designation marks a significant milestone for Pacific‑led research and global health leadership.
The designation recognises the Centre’s leadership in advancing Pacific‑driven research, policy and practice at the intersection of climate change and noncommunicable diseases — two of the most pressing and interconnected challenges facing Pacific peoples across the region and the diaspora.
The formal launch of the WHO Collaborating Centre will take place on 10 September at the University of Auckland, with WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific, Dr Saia Maʻu Piukala, expected to attend alongside regional leaders, researchers, policymakers and global partners.
Dr Piukala said the designation underscores the importance of Pacific expertise in shaping global health solutions.
“Pacific communities are on the frontline of climate change and the growing burden of noncommunicable diseases. Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa brings vital Pacific knowledge, leadership, and innovation to this work, and WHO is proud to recognise the Centre as a Collaborating Centre supporting countries across the Western Pacific region,” Dr Piukala said.
Established just three years ago, Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa has built a strong portfolio of Pacific‑led research focused on health equity, prevention and systems change, working in close partnership with Pacific communities, governments and regional organisations.
Among its flagship initiatives is a $5.1 million Matariki Fund project aimed at eliminating cervical cancer across the Pacific. The project is delivered in collaboration with the EPICC programme (funded by the Australian Government and the Minderoo Foundation) and the Polynesian Health Corridors (managed by the New Zealand Ministry of Health and funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade). The initiative aligns with WHO’s global strategy for cervical cancer elimination while responding to the specific contexts, priorities, and health systems of Pacific nations.
Sir Collin said the WHO designation is a profound recognition of Pacific research leadership.
“To be recognised by the World Health Organization as a Collaborating Centre so soon after our establishment is an immense honour,” Sir Collin said.
“It reflects the commitment of our teams and partners, and the strength of Pacific‑led research grounded in our values, knowledge systems, and lived experience. This designation strengthens our ability to work alongside Pacific countries on the issues that matter most to our peoples.”
