Rotorua and Māori Cancer Leadership Aotearoa to Host World Indigenous Cancer Conference

This landmark event will welcome 600 health professionals, researchers, clinicians, and advocates from around the globe.

Rotorua and Hei Āhuru Mōwai Māori Cancer Leadership Aotearoa are set to bring Indigenous voices, knowledge, and innovations to global attention by hosting the World Indigenous Cancer Conference (WICC) 2026. This significant event is anticipated to attract around 600 health professionals, experts, and advocates focusing on culturally grounded cancer care solutions.

For the fourth time, the bi-annual conference will provide an exceptional platform for Indigenous communities to confront the distinct cancer challenges they face, pinpoint research priorities, and share approaches tailored to their needs.

Government Support for a Historic Event

The successful bid to host the 2026 conference was spearheaded by Hei Āhuru Mōwai, supported by Tourism New Zealand Business Events and RotoruaNZ. CEO Gary Thompson emphasized the importance of Indigenous representation in finding global solutions. He stated, “Aotearoa New Zealand possesses a wealth of knowledge regarding Indigenous cancer care, featuring Māori providers who deliver hauora services. Hauora, our Māori perspective on health, embraces the physical, mental, social, and spiritual dimensions of well-being, placing whānau (family) at the core of care.”

Thompson articulated that this comprehensive approach guarantees seamless connections between hospital cancer services and community providers to enhance outcomes for their communities. The conference will empower organizations to share innovations while learning from the experiences of others.

A Unique Focus

He also highlighted the stark disparities faced by Māori, who often receive diagnoses at further stages of cancer and experience worse outcomes than non-Māori. He conveyed, “This conference is about solutions: reversing these disparities and empowering Indigenous communities globally. We aim to establish a strong international network of Indigenous cancer leadership and formalize our collective efforts during the WICC.”

The conference will honor Māori protocols, values, and storytelling, firmly embedding Indigenous perspectives throughout the entire event. Beyond scientific presentations, it will celebrate Māori culture, featuring Rotorua’s renowned attractions and authentic cultural experiences that enrich attendees’ visits.

Into the Heart of Rotorua

Thompson insisted, “We were determined that this conference be held in Rotorua, one of the chief cultural centers of Aotearoa, where it is essential to celebrate our heritage. This unique opportunity allows us to share our accomplishments and stories with the world.”

Vanessa Wallace, Business Events Manager at RotoruaNZ, shared the sentiment: “Hosting this conference enables Rotorua to proudly showcase its rich Māori culture, providing delegates with an authentic and immersive experience in a city that cherishes its heritage.”

Wallace expressed that the event will lead to substantial economic benefits for Rotorua, enhancing tourism and engagement, which ensures sustained growth in the area. The expected arrival of 600 health professionals with families in April 2026 is projected to generate an estimated economic benefit of NZ$1 million.

Penelope Ryan, global manager for business events at Tourism New Zealand, concluded, “Hosting the World Indigenous Cancer Conference will elevate New Zealand’s standing as a hub of Indigenous knowledge and innovation. It also promotes year-round tourism by attracting international visitors to our shores after our peak summer season. I hope delegates experience our manaakitanga and everything Aotearoa New Zealand has to offer while here.”