Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa (Centre for Pacific and Global Health) at Waipapa Taumata Rau (University of Auckland), has been designated a World Health Organisation Collaborating Centre for Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) and climate change.

The designation marks a milestone for Pacific-led research and health leadership, recognising the centre's work at the intersection of climate change and noncommunicable diseases.

The recognition highlights two connected issues affecting Pacific peoples across the region and diaspora, while backing Pacific-led research, policy and practice.

The formal launch of the WHO Collaborating Centre will be held at the University of Auckland on September 10, 2026.

WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific Dr Saia Maʻu Piukala is expected to attend alongside regional leaders, researchers, policymakers and global partners.

He described the WHO designation as recognition of Pacific expertise in global health.

"Pacific communities are on the frontline of climate change and the growing burden of noncommunicable diseases," Dr Piukala said.

"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."

Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa was established three years ago and has built a portfolio of Pacific-led research focused on health equity, prevention and systems change.

Its work has been carried out in partnership with Pacific communities, governments and regional organisations.

One of its main projects is a $5.1 million Matariki Fund initiative aimed at eliminating cervical cancer across the Pacific.

The project is being delivered 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 contexts, priorities and health systems of Pacific nations.

Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa co-director Professor Sir Collin Tukuitonga said the designation reflects the strength 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," Professor Sir Collin Tukuitonga 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."

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 noncommunicable diseases.

The designation places Pacific researchers within global health efforts and reinforces Pacific leadership in shaping solutions for the region and beyond.