Rotorua, Hei Āhuru Mōwai Māori Cancer Leadership Aotearoa to host World Indigenous Cancer Conference

Rotorua and Hei Āhuru Mōwai Māori Cancer Leadership Aotearoa are bringing indigenous voices, knowledge, and innovations to the world’s attention as they are slated to host the World Indigenous Cancer Conference (WICC) 2026.

This landmark event is expected to draw in 600 health professionals, researchers, clinicians, and advocates from around the globe to Aotearoa New Zealand to collaborate on culturally grounded solutions for cancer care.

Now in its fourth iteration, the bi-annual conference provides a unique platform for Indigenous communities to address the disproportionate cancer burden they face, identify research priorities, and exchange transformative approaches tailored to their unique needs.

Government support for a historic event

The successful bid to host the 2026 conference was led by Hei Āhuru Mōwai, with support from Tourism New Zealand Business Events and RotoruaNZ.

Hei Āhuru Mōwai CEO Gary Thompson emphasises the significance of Indigenous representation in driving global solutions.
He said: “Aotearoa New Zealand has a wealth of knowledge to share in Indigenous cancer care, including Māori providers delivering hauora services. Hauora, our Māori view of health, embraces the physical, mental, social, and spiritual dimensions of well-being, placing whānau (family) at the heart of care.”

Thompson added that this holistic approach ensures that hospital cancer services and community providers are seamlessly connected to improve outcomes for our people. 

Through this conference, his organisation seeks to share these innovations with other Indigenous nations while learning from their experiences to foster mutual growth and collaboration.

A unique focus

Thompson likewise highlighted the stark inequities faced by Māori, who are more likely to be diagnosed at later stages and experience poorer outcomes compared to non-Māori.

He said: “This conference is about solutions: turning these disparities around and empowering Indigenous communities worldwide. We aim to build a strong international network of Indigenous cancer leadership and formalise our collective efforts through the WICC.”

The conference will be structured around Māori tikanga (protocols), values, and storytelling, ensuring Indigenous perspectives are embedded in every aspect of the event. 

Beyond academic and scientific presentations, the programme will celebrate Māori culture, incorporating Rotorua’s world-renowned attractions and authentic cultural experiences to provide delegates with a meaningful and enriching visit.

Into the heart of Rotorua

Thompson added: “We were adamant that this conference be held in Rotorua. It’s one of the major cultural centres of Aotearoa, and as an Indigenous conference, it’s vital to host it in a vibrant environment that reflects our heritage. This is a unique opportunity to showcase the incredible work we’re doing here, while sharing our culture and stories with the world.”

RotoruaNZ business events manager Vanessa Wallace, Business Events Manager said: “By hosting this conference, Rotorua proudly showcases its rich Māori culture, offering delegates an authentic and immersive experience in a city that celebrates its heritage.

She added that the event will generate significant economic opportunities for Rotorua, with local businesses benefiting from increased tourism and engagement, ensuring long-term growth for the region.

The influx of 600 health professionals with their families in April 2026 is expected to deliver an estimated economic benefit of NZ$1 million.

For her part, Tourism New Zealand global manager for business events Penelope Ryan added: “Hosting the World Indigenous Cancer Conference will enhance New Zealand’s reputation as a leader in Indigenous knowledge and innovation. Additionally, it supports year-round tourism to New Zealand by bringing international visitors to our shores in April, after our peak summer season.  I hope the delegates get a chance to enjoy our manaakitanga and all that Aotearoa New Zealand has to offer while they are here.”