News and stories
Read our latest updates and patient stories
University of Auckland’s Dr Daniel Verdon Secures Melanoma New Zealand Research Funding
We’re thrilled to announce that Dr Daniel Verdon, from the University of Auckland, has been awarded funding through the Melanoma New Zealand Research Fund. This fund was created to support innovative, high-impact research aimed at improving melanoma outcomes and...
Get Spotted 2025
We were blown away by the creativity and effort shown by children across Aotearoa for this year’s Get Spotted colouring-in competition. Their colourful designs help spread an important message: protect your skin from the sun! Following our review of 1,331 entries,...
Message from our Chief Executive
I’d like to start by acknowledging Michele Daly for sharing her ocular melanoma journey with us. By generously opening up about her experience, Michele is helping to shine a light on this rare form of cancer. Her willingness to speak out not only raises awareness but...
Ocular Melanoma: The Rare Form of Cancer that Changed Michele’s Life
When scientist Michele Daly experienced disturbed vision in August last year, she visited her optometrist promptly. Unfortunately, it wasn’t until February 2025 that the source of the ‘floaters and flashing lights’ in her right eye was diagnosed at Auckland’s...
Spring 2025 Newsletter – Spot News
Welcome to the Winter 2025 edition of Spot News
Winter 2025 Newsletter – Spot News
Welcome to the Winter 2025 edition of Spot News
Dr Andrea Gu – Combating Drug Resistance in Melanoma
Starting September 2025 New Zealand melanoma researcher Dr Andrea Gu will spend 18 months working alongside Dr David Adams, Head of Experimental Cancer Genetics at the high-profile Wellcome Sanger Institute in the UK.
Patient perspective – Kendall Takuta’s story
“I want to make memories with my kids and be there for them as they grow up. I’m determined to do everything I can to make that happen,” she says. “The funding could not only give me peace of mind but also mean more time to create those lasting memories.”
Patient perspective – 28-year-old Finlay Bergin’s story
“This is amazing. Because the biggest stress since my melanoma diagnosis has been money related”
Good news for many advanced melanoma patients in New Zealand
Good news for many advanced melanoma patients in New Zealand. Melanoma New Zealand welcomes today’s news from Pharmac for increased and new access to funded medicines because it’s long-awaited good news for many New Zealand patients with advanced melanoma.