News
Read articles and our latest media releases about our efforts
Call for swift action on new RSV protection for infants
A breakthrough RSV treatment for infants, nirsevimab, is under consideration by Medsafe and Pharmac. Experts say it could prevent hospitalisations and are urging rapid approval for 2026.
Tongariro fire: Respiratory health warning for people living, travelling nearby
People near the Tongariro National Park fire are urged to take precautions as smoke spreads. Those with respiratory conditions should reduce exposure and use N95 or KN95 masks where needed.
Vaping threatens smokefree progress, Government must act now, health organisation warns
New Lancet research shows vaping has stalled progress in reducing youth smoking in NZ and deepened inequities for Māori and Pacific teens, raising concerns about youth nicotine addiction.
Kath Cross: A hero in motion
With a stranger’s lungs in her chest, Rotorua’s Kath Cross is gearing up to cycle 30km in Taupō to raise awareness for respiratory disease and support the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ.
Health organisation concerned by findings linking gas stoves to childhood asthma cases
An EECA-commissioned report links gas stoves to thousands of childhood asthma cases in NZ. The Foundation warns indoor air pollution is a serious risk and urges better home ventilation.
Kiwi families face ‘ticking time bomb’ without funded heart drugs
PCSK9 inhibitors could transform the lives of people with familial hypercholesterolaemia, but they're not funded in New Zealand, leaving thousands at risk of early heart attacks.
“I want to be around for my son for a long time”: 50-year-old solo dad’s fight with heart disease
Korie, a solo dad and builder from Wellington, is living with familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH), an inherited condition that causes life-threateningly high cholesterol.
A dad’s battle with heart disease highlights gaps in healthcare system
Despite four heart stents, Matt Goddin's inherited high cholesterol remains dangerously high because life-saving PCSK9 medicines are not funded in New Zealand.
Unsettled spring weather likely to spark asthma and allergy flare-ups
Spring weather shifts are increasing pollen exposure and asthma flare-ups across NZ, with Foundation warning that wind and temperature changes can worsen symptoms for 1 in 8 Kiwis.
Urgent relief for Christchurch kura battling unhealthy buildings
With support from partner AHI Carrier Toshiba, the Foundation provided air purifiers to Te Pā o Rākaihautū, to protect respiratory issues from worsening as they learn in damp, mouldy classrooms.
Running with purpose: One athlete’s mission to inspire others
North Shore footballer Callum Massey is running 21km for the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ, turning his asthma journey into a fundraiser supporting respiratory health awareness.
New report reveals the grim reality of heart healthcare in New Zealand
The first comprehensive report into heart disease and cardiac care in Aotearoa exposes major workforce shortages, treatment delays and inequities across New Zealand.