WHO honours Pacific-led health research centre

The University of Auckland's Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa, Centre for Pacific and Global Health, will be officially launched as a World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre for Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) and Climate Change on 10 September.

The Auckland event marks a significant milestone for Pacific-led research and global health leadership. It will bring together regional leaders, researchers, policymakers and international health partners, including WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific, Dr Saia Ma'u Piukala, who will formally launch the Collaborating Centre.

Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa was designated a WHO Collaborating Centre earlier this year in recognition of its 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.

Co-director Professor Sir Collin Tukuitonga says the launch will celebrate both the Centre's achievement and the growing influence of Pacific leadership in global health.

"This launch will mark an important moment for Pacific communities and countries, acknowledging the vital role Pacific knowledge and leadership can play in addressing some of the world's most pressing health challenges," says Sir Collin.

"Pacific peoples are on the frontline of climate change while also experiencing a heavy burden of noncommunicable diseases. Through this designation, we will be able to strengthen research, partnerships and evidence-based action that directly benefits our communities."

Established three years ago, Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa has developed a strong portfolio of Pacific-led research focused on health equity, prevention and systems change, working alongside 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, delivered through partnerships that align with WHO's global strategy for cervical cancer elimination while responding to Pacific priorities and health systems.

Sir Collin says becoming a WHO Collaborating Centre will strengthen the Centre's ability to support Pacific countries and influence health policy regionally and globally.

"To be recognised by the World Health Organization as a Collaborating Centre so soon after our establishment is an immense honour.

"It reflects the commitment of our team and partners, and the strength of Pacific-led research grounded in our values, knowledge systems and lived experience. The designation will strengthen our ability to work alongside Pacific countries on the issues that matter most to our peoples."

As a WHO Collaborating Centre, Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa 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 NCDs. The Centre will work closely with Pacific countries and international partners across the Pacific region.

The event will also feature an opening address from Dr Paula Vivili, Director-General of the Pacific Community (SPC), alongside presentations from WHO representatives and University leaders.

Sir Collin says the launch will signal a new chapter for Pacific health research and collaboration.

"Our vision is for Pacific solutions to Pacific priorities.

"This designation recognises the value of research rooted in Pacific perspectives and lived realities. We hope it will create greater opportunities for collaboration, innovation and impact across the region.

"Ultimately, we want to support healthier and more resilient Pacific communities while ensuring Pacific voices help shape the future of global health."

The WHO designation positions Pacific researchers at the forefront of international efforts to address climate change and noncommunicable diseases, reinforcing the importance of Pacific leadership in developing solutions for the region and beyond.