News

Never Too Young report launched at Parliament – young voices call for earlier diagnosis and improved care

Young New Zealanders facing bowel cancer were front and centre at Parliament as Bowel Cancer New Zealand formally launched the Never Too Young report, calling for earlier diagnosis and improved care for people under 50.

12 February 2026

Young New Zealanders facing bowel cancer call for action as new report reveals gaps in care

Bowel Cancer New Zealand (BCNZ) has welcomed the Government’s announcement that bowel screening will now be available from age 58.

12 November 2025

Bowel Cancer New Zealand welcomes faster, simpler test for patients with symptoms

Bowel Cancer New Zealand (BCNZ) has welcomed the Government’s announcement that bowel screening will now be available from age 58.

9 October 2025

An important step forward, but bigger changes needed to save lives from bowel cancer

Bowel Cancer New Zealand (BCNZ) has welcomed the Government’s announcement that bowel screening will now be available from age 58.

9 October 2025

Government delay is costing lives – experts and families call for bowel screening at 45

Bowel Cancer New Zealand meets with Health Minister to press for action on screening from age 45 and post-treatment exercise programme

24 September 2025

Bowel Cancer New Zealand meets with Health Minister to press for action on screening from age 45 and post-treatment exercise programme

Bowel Cancer New Zealand meets with Health Minister to press for action on screening from age 45 and post-treatment exercise programme

12 August 2025

Cottonsoft: A partner that helps us reach millions of Kiwis!

This Awareness Month, Cottonsoft is once again helping take our message straight into Kiwi homes with selected toilet tissue packs labelled with key bowel cancer symptoms.

17 June 2025

Two Brave Mums Take a Stand to Urge Action on Screening Age

This May, a demonstration at Parliament will be led by Rachael Ferguson and Jackie Robertson – two women who know firsthand the heartbreak of bowel cancer.

1 April 2025

Impact Report 2024

Thanks to your generosity, our 2023/2024 Impact Report highlights the progress we’ve made in research, advocacy, education, and support.

25 March 2025

New revelations cast further doubt on bowel screening decision

New measures aim to boost bowel screening uptake, but concerns remain over missed opportunities to save more lives—especially for Māori and Pasifika.

20 March 2025

Screening Age Announcement Leaves Prime Minister’s Promise 90% Unmet

Announcement by government to lower the screening age from 60 to 58 leaves over 900,000 Kiwis without the protection that is standard care across the Tasman.

6 March 2025

Bowel Cancer New Zealand Meets New Health Minister to Discuss Screening from 45

Hon Simeon Brown invited Bowel Cancer New Zealand to meet and discuss how to combat New Zealand’s second biggest cancer killer.

4 March 2025

Our Medical Advisor Headlines in TIME Magazine!

Bowel Cancer New Zealand medical advisor, Professor Frank Frizelle, has been featured in a TIME Magazine cover story for his groundbreaking research.

17 February 2025

Community Gathers to Address Colonoscopy Delays in Palmerston North

Patient Voice Aotearoa’s public meeting seeks solutions to Te Whatu Ora’s pause on surveillance colonoscopies in Palmerston North.

4 February 2025

Scammer Alert

Beware of fraudulent phone surveys claiming to be from Bowel Cancer New Zealand.

3 February 2025

Cancer screening cut decision ‘certain to cost Kiwi lives’

Alarming news on the sudden end of bowel cancer screening for 50-60-year-old Māori & Pasifika in key regions, raises concerns over health equity.

13 December 2024

Screening options for bowel cancer

Our support nurse, Victoria Thompson, details the bowel screening options in Aotearoa, New Zealand.

30 November 2024

Significant drug funding milestone for cancer patients

Today marks a significant milestone with the funding of cetuximab (branded as Erbitux) for advanced bowel cancer patients.

1 November 2024

Charity announces new Chief Executive

Years of advocacy calling for new bowel cancer drugs has led to a funding announcement from Pharmac for two new medicines.

29 October 2024

Board members meet with Health Minister

In an open and constructive conversation, the Minister reaffirmed that his Government “will lower the bowel cancer screening age” for the general population.

2 September 2024

What a difference YOU made

We are absolutely blown away by the generosity and drive Kiwis have put behind Bowel Cancer Awareness Month 2024.

15 August 2024

Critical Failures in Bowel Cancer Diagnosis

Two recent articles highlight serious shortcomings in bowel cancer diagnosis and treatment. These cases reveal the immense pressure our healthcare system is under.

15 August 2024

Public wait times could be costing lives

Professor Frank Frizelle, our medical advisor, speaks about the highly problematic wait list for colonoscopies and surgery in the public system.

30 July 2024

Government's response to stalled Māori and Pasifika screening

Health Minister Shane Reti has responded to concerns over the slow rollout of the screening program for Māori and Pasifika from 50.

30 July 2024

Charity concerned by slow screening rollout for Māori and Pasifika

Since the government initiative was launched, only three districts have begun screening Māori and Pasifika from 50.

24 July 2024

Relief as new bowel cancer drugs announced

Years of advocacy calling for new bowel cancer drugs has led to a funding announcement from Pharmac for two new medicines.

10 July 2024

Government confirms new cancer drugs

The National government has confirmed that 26 cancer treatments will be funded. This is just the first step; time is of the essence.

25 June 2024

New bowel screening test launched

Bowel Cancer New Zealand is proud of the role we've played in providing the NZ public with an option to purchase a private screening test.

11 June 2024

Broken drug funding promise

Bowel cancer patients have already been waiting for 22 years, the last time a new medicine was funded to treat them.

4 June 2024

Take action this Bowel Cancer Awareness Month

Kiwis are urged to learn the symptoms and take action this June for Awareness Month.

21 May 2024

Young Bowel Cancer Widow Wants Change

Bowel cancer patient advocate speaks at the opening of the two-day New Zealand Medicine Access Summit in Parliament.

2 May 2024

CANGO response to Pharmac funding

Significantly more is needed from Pharmac as incremental change will not address medicines currently sitting on the options for funding list.

1 May 2024

URGENT PSA: Bowel Screening Test Samples

We want to clarify the concerns raised about ’spoilt’ bowel screening samples being discarded.

22 April 2024

How to Help Someone With Cancer Part 2

Is delivering meals to a cancer patient actually helpful? Here are some more advice on how best to support patients – from patients.

9 April 2024

Advocate groups welcome changes to travel assistance scheme

A collective of health charities has welcomed the announcement by Health NZ to introduce changes to the National Travel Assistance (NTA) Scheme.

27 March 2024

How to Help Someone With Cancer

“Let me know what you need.” Something we have all said, but can be one of the most frustrating things to hear as a cancer patient.

26 March 2024

Petition To Lower Screening Age

Rachael Ferguson was 32 years old when diagnosed with bowel cancer. She is determined to stop this from happening to more young people...

12 March 2024

Former Tall Back Talks Bowel Cancer

Our ambassador and former Tall Black Alex Pledger spoke to Dom Harvey, reflecting on his bowel cancer journey and where he is now.

5 March 2024

Fibre is more important than you realise

Kiwi nutritionist Nikki Hart speaks to us about the importance of fibre in the diet and its connection to lowering the risk of bowel cancer.

14 February 2024

Call for action on World Cancer Day

This year, on World Cancer Day, we call on the government to act on their election promise to lower the screening age to 45.

4 February 2024

New Video Showcases Our Impact

ANZ New Zealand showcased our charity in a heartwarming video and article with bowel cancer patient Tamsyn Cornwall and our nurse.

22 January 2024

Free packs for just diagnosed patients

These free packs for newly diagnosed patients include essential resources to help navigate the way forward.

17 January 2024

Dean Barker Gives Health Update

Bowel Cancer New Zealand ambassador Dean Barker shares how he is doing mentally and physically in his bowel cancer journey.

8 January 2024

Impact Report 2023

Our 2022/2023 Impact Report illustrates how with your support, we have kept patients at the forefront of everything we do.

13 December 2023

12 Days of Gratitude

We’re doing 12 days of gratitude this Christmas to share our mahi and the incredible support we received in 2023.

12 December 2023

New Silver Partner - RHCNZ Medical Imaging Group

RHCNZ Medical Imaging Group Partners with Bowel Cancer New Zealand to Promote Early Detection and Awareness.

11 December 2023

Becca Project Body Oil's Special Tribute

La Mère Diana is named after the creator's mother who passed away from bowel cancer. $1 from every bottle will go to Bowel Cancer New Zealand.

30 November 2023

Changing the "she'll be right" narrative

Doug is a bowel cancer patient and vocal advocate for men’s health. He has been sharing his story, treatment and symptoms on social media.

28 November 2023

NTA Let's Drive Change

We are supporting a campaign to ensure that the National Travel Assistance (NTA) Scheme works better for patients and whānau.

23 November 2023

A note from our nurse...

"I've put together some tips that might make getting through the holiday season a little easier..."

21 November 2023

Dai Henwood's Mindset Tools

Dai speaks bravely and openly about the emotional rollercoaster of his diagnosis and chemo.

8 November 2023

Live tissue research

The University of Otago provided the opportunity for a patient voice with the Live Human Tissue Model Network.

11 October 2023

No debate – bowel screening age to be lowered

A commitment to lowering the bowel screening age is only the first step.

28 September 2023

Urgent call for political action on cancer

NZ's leading cancer charities has issued an urgent call ahead of the election, to take action on cancer.

13 September 2023

Patient organisations declare medicines crisis in NZ

Patient advocate organisations tackle the issue of investment and timely access to new medicines.

28 August 2023

Dai Henwood's bowel cancer diagnosis

Dai Henwood was diagnosed with bowel cancer in April 2020 and says, "Cancer doesn't define me. How I respond to it defines me."

2 August 2023

Therapeutic Products Bill open letter

We urge the Government to pause the Therapeutic Products Bill and to consult with the various organisations affected.\n

12 June 2023

Barker gets moving for bowel cancer fundraiser

New Zealand sailing legend and bowel cancer survivor Dean Barker is encouraging Kiwis to join him and help kick bowel cancer in the butt this June.

29 May 2023

Impact Report 2022

Our 2021/2022 Impact Report is now available and highlights our key activities over the year and what your support helped us achieve.

13 February 2023

Position statement on unfunded bowel cancer medicines

Kiwis with bowel cancer do not have access to potentially life-extending treatments due to Pharmac’s funding process.

12 December 2022

Cottonsofts gets in behind the fight against bowel cancer

Bowel Cancer New Zealand sponsor, CottonSofts, now lists potential bowel cancer symptoms on new packaging to save lives!

7 December 2022

Financial Assistance Service launched

A diagnosis costs in more ways than just the physical and emotional; there is also a financial burden. Financial assistance is now available.

4 November 2022

Exciting research that we're currently funding

We’re proud to be research partners with The Mallaghan Institute Of Medical Research and K9 Medical Detection.

3 October 2022

Call for government to urgently address “unacceptable” barriers

Worrying delays face younger patients in accessing much-needed diagnostic bowel screening.

19 September 2022

Position statement on early-onset bowel cancer

Bowel cancer in young people is increasing and greater awareness about the significance of its symptoms in this group is urgently needed.

13 September 2022

Dean Barker's bowel cancer journey

"If by sharing my story, I can help just one person to go and get checked out early, then it will be worth it.”

12 September 2022

Bowel screening age for Māori and Pasifika lowered

The bowel screening age for Māori and Pasifika people will be lowered from 60 to 50 years old starting in 2023.

24 May 2022

Report highlights how far there is still to go

The report released today by Te Aho o Te Kahu (the Cancer Control Agency) is a small step in the right direction, but there is still a long way to go.

28 April 2022

Chris Cairns battles bowel cancer

Surgery was a success and I'm out of ICU and feeling good. Great team of surgeons, doctors and nurses here taking care of me.

4 April 2022

Bowel Cancer New Zealand unfunded drug opinion piece

Targeted drugs for metastatic bowel cancer aren’t funded in New Zealand. Why are Kiwis being denied access to these medicines?

4 April 2022

Jenny-May’s story: her much loved brother passed away at 54

Jenny-May lost her brother to bowel cancer at age 54, so she knows first hand how important it is to seek help early.

17 February 2022

Covid-19 information for cancer patients

We've put together some information and answers to frequently asked questions about the COVID-19 vaccination and cancer treatments during the pandemic.

8 February 2022

Position statement on nitrates and drinking water

Nitrates in drinking water are highly unlikely to increase the risk of bowel cancer in NZ, according to the current weight of evidence.

19 December 2021

Support for a Commissioner-led inquiry

Bowel Cancer New Zealand is concerned about barriers to timely diagnosis of colorectal cancer by people in the Southern DHB.

13 December 2021

Early-onset colorectal cancer research

It's estimated within the next decade 1 in 10 colon cancers and 1 in 4 rectal cancers will be diagnosed in adults younger than 50 years.

29 November 2021

New Normal Same Cancer

Professor Frank Frizelle, Bowel Cancer New Zealand’s medical advisor, discusses the importance of the New Normal Same Cancer campaign.

26 October 2021

Stop “shrugging your shoulders” at cancer deaths

We are calling on the Prime Minister to adopt the same hard-line, “zero tolerance” approach to cancer deaths that she is to COVID.

6 October 2021

Heartwarming news from a survivor

"I wanted to share this photo with you as we spend a lot of time talking about the negatives of cancer and I think it’s sometimes nice to hear positive stories."

9 September 2021

Covid delays for cancer patients

While it is important we lockdown to help control the delta variant, we also need to continue to progress investigation and treatment for cancer patients

23 August 2021

Nutrition tips to help with lockdown

See this lockdown as an opportunity to rest and nourish yourself. Keep up a balanced diet as much as possible - send a friend to the supermarket for you if you don’t feel up to it.

23 August 2021

Lockdown advice from our medical advisor

Try not to worry too much, says our medical advisor Dr Sue Crengle. Her advice is to follow the guidelines for level 4 very closely.

18 August 2021

Health system failing young bowel cancer patients

We are calling on the Prime Minister to adopt the same hard-line, “zero tolerance” approach to cancer deaths that she is to COVID.

29 July 2021

New Research Underway

We’re proud to be contributing $60,0000 towards a Kaupapa Māori Qualitative Study.

10 June 2021

Bowel Cancer New Zealand's response to the Wellbeing Budget 2021

Bowel Cancer New Zealand is disappointed that funding for PHARMAC was less than half the amount requested.

8 June 2021

Help beat the devastating impact of bowel cancer at moveyourbutt.org.nz

We are calling on the Prime Minister to adopt the same hard-line, “zero tolerance” approach to cancer deaths that she is to COVID.

1 June 2021

Our nurse is working hard in NZ communities thanks to Dry July

Victoria, our bowel cancer nurse, has had a busy year attending meetings and events to raise awareness of the symptoms of bowel cancer.

1 June 2021

Rachael’s story: Stepping out to beat bowel cancer

Not long after Rachael was diagnosed, all she wanted to do was create more awareness around bowel cancer.

16 April 2021

Kevin’s story: Moving his butt to get people talking

Kevin Biggar’s life was touched by bowel cancer when his Mum died. As a motivational speaker and adventurer, he’s determined to spread the word and get Kiwis talking about it.

15 March 2021

Tamsyn’s story: Moving her butt to inspire others

After suffering from IBD for 22 years, Tamsyn was diagnosed with bowel cancer at just 31. Despite going through chemo, she’s doing the challenge to raise awareness and inspire others.

15 March 2021

Bowel Cancer New Zealand wants action to right inequities

We call on the Ministry of Health to prove equitable health care is a priority for the government on World Cancer Day.

3 February 2021

New Normal Same Cancer campaign launches on World Cancer Day

As we dealt with COVID-19 here in NZ, cancer screening and testing declined. But don’t wait. Contact your doctor. Get checked.

3 February 2021

2020 Highlights and Achievements of Bowel Cancer New Zealand

Covid-19 impacted our funding, but it certainly didn't slow us down in 2020.

2 February 2021

Dairy and low-fat diet can reduce risk of bowel cancer - study

This four-year study was the first to specifically examine the role of diet as a cause of bowel cancer in NZ.

25 November 2020

Bowel cancer insights for Te Aho o Te Kahu, Cancer Control Agency

Our communications manager has been selected to share her personal insights.

18 November 2020

MediWell Magazine's 'Never Too Young' article

We're really pleased with how our Never Too Young article looks in MediBoard NZ's very first edition.

9 September 2020

Have you got your pair of Bum Huggers yet?

Bum Huggers is a project we've released in collaboration with Great Full NZ where all profits go to our charity.

21 August 2020

CANGO pre-election manifesto 2020

Cancer is the leading cause of death in New Zealand. This year, 23,000 New Zealanders will be diagnosed with cancer and 10,000 will die.

5 August 2020

Never Too Young runs in remembrance of young lives lost to bowel cancer

The campaign is running this August, in memory of 4 brave young people who appeared in the 2018 campaign and have sadly passed away since.

31 July 2020

Are you over 18 and living with cancer or look after someone who is?

Bowel Cancer New Zealand is proud to be supporting this study by the University of Technology, Sydney.

16 June 2020

Help us support bowel cancer patients by fundraising for Dry July

We’re proud to be a beneficiary of Dry July NZ this year and we've got exciting news... Sign up for Dry July 2020 is now open!

8 June 2020

Never Too Young campaign to run again in August

A group of bowel cancer patients has put together a nationwide campaign highlighting that you are never too young for bowel cancer.

3 June 2020

Get moving to beat the devastating impact of bowel cancer

June 2020 is bowel cancer awareness month – and it’s also our annual Move your Butt fundraiser.

18 May 2020

CottonSofts has a passion for the cause

Since 2013 CottonSofts have worked with us every year, creating campaigns to help raise awareness and much-needed funds.

17 May 2020

Emma's Move your Butt challenge: Just imagine the pain of losing a loved one

Emma Purchase's gorgeous husband Chris, the father to her two children, tragically passed away at the end of February from stage 4 bowel cancer.

6 May 2020

COVID-19 advice for our bowel cancer community

Some people with bowel cancer are more at risk of becoming seriously ill if they contract the COVID-19 infection.

16 March 2020

Liana & Simon Doull's story

Former Black Caps fast bowler and cricket commentator Simon Doull and his wife Liana have become Bowel Cancer New Zealand ambassadors.

6 March 2020

Jane's Move your Butt challenge: Prevention is the big thing

Jane Lowe's experience of nearly losing her mother to bowel cancer has left her determined to help more Kiwis prevent and beat bowel cancer.

5 March 2020

Ed's Move your Butt challenge: Losing my Dad was a wake-up call

Edwin Lim has several very moving reasons to get involved in this year’s Move your Butt challenge.

4 March 2020

Bowel Cancer’s ‘Forgotten 360’

“The government is turning its back on hundreds of New Zealanders in their fifties, condemning many to an unnecessarily early grave.”

26 February 2020

Bequest for bowel cancer research gratefully welcomed

Deborah (Debbie) Mary Fitzpatrick passed away on 27 June 2019 after a 2 ½ year battle with bowel cancer.

21 January 2020

Bowel cancer survivor represents cancer patients

Bowel cancer survivor and registered nurse, Kirsty Wing, is representing the patient / public perspective on the Bowel Screening Advisory Group

8 January 2020

Vineyard Half charity walker's husband has stage 4 bowel cancer

Turid Heiler's husband Mike was diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer at just 42 years old, on their youngest child’s 6th birthday.

7 January 2020

Bowel Cancer New Zealand provides patient voice at MedTech Showcase

Our chairperson Trisha Cooney recently attended the MedTech Showcase in Parliament, hosted by the Minister of Health.

15 November 2019

Overdue bowel screening finally hits halfway mark

Bowel Cancer New Zealand is critical of how long the nationwide rollout has taken, and how long it will continue to take for the remaining half of New Zealand to get access to life-saving bowel screening.

14 November 2019

Overdue bowel screening finally hits halfway mark

Bowel Cancer New Zealand is pleased to see the bowel screening programme finally rolled out to half of New Zealand’s 20 DHBs.

14 November 2019

Animated colonoscopy video reduces patient anxiety

In 2018 a Clinical Nurse Specialist at Mercy Hospital co-designed an animated video with a talented group of students at Otago Polytech.

24 October 2019

Waves against the rock by Turid Heiler

Like waves hitting rocks, bouncing off and then returning once again is how wide the cancer impact feels...

3 October 2019

Cancer agency welcomed but now the real work begins

Bowel Cancer New Zealand welcomes the Government’s announcement yesterday of a national control agency and a funding boost for Pharmac.

2 September 2019

Kristina’s Move your Butt challenge: Still going strong!

Nat would be shouting at us from the heavens. She was the MOST competitive, feisty, hearty, mouthy (netball) player you'd find.

24 June 2019

Sarah’s Move your Butt challenge: 60 sit-ups per day so people sit up and take notice

I’m not someone who usually does this sort of thing, but this cause is just too important to ignore.

13 June 2019

Father of three moves to Christchurch to access treatment

For father-of-three Mike Heiler staying alive meant packing up his family's life in Wanaka and moving five hours away to Christchurch.

4 June 2019

Evie’s Move your Butt challenge: Getting checked early is just a no brainer

Our amazing current leader on the Move your Butt fundraising leaderboard, Evie, is planning to ‘plant a tree pose’ every day in June.

4 June 2019

Renee’s Move your Butt Challenge: A positive attitude is everything

Well, as the beginning of the challenge nears I find myself in an awkward situation.  Am I going to be ready to start?

4 June 2019

Hike for Health an emotional tribute

This May, four amazing people all who had lost someone incredibly important to them due to bowel cancer, trekked the Great Wall of China.

31 May 2019

Owen’s Move your Butt challenge: 100 reps in memory of 100 lives

This equates to a total of 100 repetitions, representing the 100 lives that will be lost in June from this disease. Read more here.

23 May 2019

Britt's top tips – here’s to living!

I’ve just completed the Saint Clair Vineyard half marathon and wow, what a location and setting! I woke up to the most beautiful day for a run.

22 May 2019

Kristina's Move your Butt challenge: Mother's Day hits hard

It's days like today that make something harder than it should be. Beaten by that dreaded word again BOWEL CANCER.

21 May 2019

Cottonsoft NZ kicks butt to help beat bowel cancer!

Kim Calvert is Country Manager at Cottonsoft New Zealand, and he and his team are definitely getting behind the Move your Butt challenge in June.

19 May 2019

Ann’s Move your Butt challenge: It’s full steam ahead!

I have only just sent out emails to friends telling them what I am doing and have been amazed at the support that I have had back already.

19 May 2019

Nigel supports Move your Butt: “It’s annoying, but exercise is good for you.”

Nigel Latta, TV host, author and psychologist, is getting behind the Move your Butt challenge in June. Read more here.

6 May 2019

Claire’s Move your Butt challenge: moving to spread the word about nutrition

Nutritionist, media commentator and mother, Claire Turnbull, is taking on the Move your Butt challenge to help more Kiwis beat bowel cancer.

3 May 2019

Jenny-May’s Move your Butt challenge: Moving her Butt to raise awareness

Sports commentator, Jenny-May Clarkson, is taking on the Move your Butt challenge this June to help more Kiwis beat bowel cancer.

3 May 2019

Frank’s Move your Butt challenge: Moving his Butt to help save lives.

Professor Frank Frizelle is a bowel cancer specialist, Professor of Surgery and the Editor in Chief of the New Zealand medical journey.

16 April 2019

4 tips from Britt to help overcome inertia

You've signed up for the Challenge and feeling great - but now you’ve got to start preparing to Move that Butt!

16 April 2019

Kristina’s Move your Butt challenge: bowel cancer takes lives and hearts

I signed on to the Move your Butt challenge and it’s all on! I’m doing it for Nat, my best friend and sister who I lost to bowel cancer.

15 April 2019

Renee's Move your Butt challenge: to walk 5km per day, every day, for June

So I’ve signed up for this challenge.  No big deal I think!  But…it is a big deal.  I have long wanted to work with Bowel Cancer New Zealand.

15 April 2019

Ann’s Move your Butt challenge: walking 30 mins a day to beat bowel cancer

Ann Bradley is adamant that she’s going to participate in Move your Butt month - partly for her fitness, but primarily to help spread the word.

13 April 2019

So, you’ve signed up to Move your Butt?

So, you’ve signed up to Move your Butt? Make sure you include these must-haves on your fundraising page. More here:

13 April 2019

Owen’s Move your Butt challenge – Burpees for Bowel Cancer New Zealand

Burpees for Bowel Cancer is my Move your Butt challenge and I’m making steady progress. So far I’m managing 16 burpees a day. More here:

12 April 2019

Introducing our Move your Butt coach: Britt Chambers

Britt Chambers is a huge supporter of Bowel Cancer New Zealand and a true inspiration to us all.

12 April 2019

Renee's Move your Butt challenge: fit, healthy and diagnosed with bowel cancer

At 38, I was fit and healthy, and diagnosed with bowel cancer. I was treated with surgery followed by 6 months of chemotherapy. More here:

10 April 2019

Louisa's Move your Butt challenge: I always like to have a goal

I’m passionate about doing the Move your Butt challenge this June as my father died of bowel cancer when I was 16. More here:

9 April 2019

Dionne’s Move your Butt challenge: 100 squats a day to help beat bowel cancer

Dionne and her family are challenging themselves to do 100 squats a day for the Move your Butt challenge in June. Read more here:

9 April 2019

Mary’s story: from survivor to supporter

Her doctor recommended an ultrasound , which led to a Stage 3 diagnosis where cancer was found in her bowel and lymph nodes. More here:

1 April 2019

Highlights from 2018

Here are just some of the ways your help has enabled Bowel Cancer New Zealand to make real change happen. Read more here:

11 March 2019

Urgent need for investigation into variations

Bowel Cancer New Zealand wants to see an urgent investigation into the "wide variation" in mortality rates following bowel cancer surgery across the country, as revealed in the 2019 Bowel Cancer Quality Improvement Report.

6 March 2019

Andrew's Story

The doctor literally saved my life. 10 days later I had my colonoscopy and they found a 5cm tumour low down in my bowel.

14 February 2019

Rapid access to cancer medicines in New Zealand

CANGO has adopted a position on improving the access to new cancer medicines and treatments in New Zealand. Read more here:

7 February 2019

Karen's Story - Please get your symptoms checked. I didn’t, don’t make my mistake

My oncologist, with all family present, then told me I had stage 4 bowel cancer that had metastasised to my liver and lung. More here:

5 February 2019

Calls for national cancer agency to put a stop to 'unacceptable' 'post code lottery'

“Unacceptable” disparities between New Zealand’s DHBs for cancer outcomes has experts calling for a new national agency. More here:

2 February 2019

Dying father speaks out about failing health system

The Southland father says he’s been let down by the public health system that fails to hold DHBs to account for life-threatening wait times.

31 January 2019

Young cyclist dying of cancer regrets not 'pushing harder' for diagnosis

For years an elite cyclist’s stomach pain was put down to food intolerances. Now, Brittnea Chambers has been told her cancer is terminal.

26 January 2019

Report highlights issues that must be addressed

“We have been calling for the government to increase workforce capacity since 2010 and yet nothing has been done to address these concerns."

6 December 2018

Life Saving Bowel Screening

Hira Renata received an invitation to participate in the National Bowel Screening Programme this year and it may have saved his life.

3 December 2018

Kiwi-as Toilets book available now

This quirky book is ideal for road-trippers, people looking for a unique coffee-table book for those seeking that uniquely different gift!

8 November 2018

Pasifika community in Hawke's Bay urged to get bowel checks

Health officials are trying to curb the high rate of bowel cancer deaths among Pasifika people by encouraging them to take screening tests.

31 October 2018

Young patients’ long wait for bowel cancer - study

Bowel Cancer New Zealand funded a study earlier this year to research the pathways to diagnosis for bowel cancer patients. More here:

8 October 2018

Health officials under pressure for earlier bowel cancer screening for Māori

The Ministry of Health is being urged to review a bowel cancer screening decision, to reduce health inequity. Read more here:

7 October 2018

A research first for bowel cancer in New Zealand

A Bowel Cancer New Zealand funded study is the first to present bowel cancer patients’ perspectives and experiences of the pathways to diagnosis.

5 October 2018

Hawke's Bay's new bowel cancer treatment facility opens

3 October 2018

Update on the National Bowel Screening Program September 2018

Hawke’s Bay DHB will join the National Bowel Screening Programme in October offering free bowel screening to eligible 60 to 74 year-olds.

28 September 2018

Waiting times for bowel cancer tests in Northland excessive

Everyone should be able to expect a timely bowel cancer diagnosis no matter where they live in NZ, whether that is Auckland or Northland.

20 September 2018

Patients waiting too long for bowel cancer diagnosis

Bowel Cancer New Zealand has been calling for an increase in colonoscopies and endoscopists for nearly a decade now. Read more:

18 September 2018

Dying patients with rare chemo reaction paying for own drugs

She had surgery followed by chemo but suffered from cardio-toxicity from the chemo drug, known as 5-FU. Read more here:

12 September 2018

International recognition for ground-breaking Christchurch surgeon

Frank has been awarded one of the highest honours, an honourary fellowship from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. Read more here:

5 September 2018

Bowel cancer screen concerns put to rest

More than 150 people took the chance to walk through our huge inflatable colon and chat to health experts last week. Read more here:

23 August 2018

Dying bowel cancer patient spreads message

The Dunedin 37-year-old is dying from bowel cancer, and wants to spend the time she has left alerting people to the signs of the disease.

22 August 2018

Revealed: Bowel cancer diagnosed years after screening failure

A person was diagnosed with bowel cancer more than 3 years after they should have been invited to take part in a free screening programme.

22 August 2018

Bowel cancer NZ wants more information

Bowel screening information should tell people how to get their actual reading, Bowel Cancer New Zealand says. Read more here:

22 August 2018

Cooper's Beach man lucky to have tumours spotted by GP

The 79-year-old Cooper’s Beach resident was at home last week recovering from a second bout of surgery to remove a tumour. Read more:

14 August 2018

Another 30,000 start bowel cancer screening in Nelson Marlborough

Health Minister Dr David Clark is welcoming the introduction of the National Bowel Screening Programme in Nelson Marlborough DHB today.

14 August 2018

Positive step forward for bowel cancer screening

Positive step forward for bowel cancer screening\nBowel Cancer New Zealand is pleased the Ministry of Health has accepted the series of\nrecommendations from the bowel screening review, and looks forward to working with the\nMinistry going forward.

8 August 2018

Govt releases review of Bowel Cancer screening rollout, following missed diagnoses

The Health Minister has delivered a new set of recommendations to strengthen the rollout of the national bowel cancer screening programme.

8 August 2018

Choose to be EarthSmart!

Cottonsoft Ltd has recently added a few new products to their awesome portfolio.  Last year they launched EarthSmart toilet tissue. Read more:

7 August 2018

DIY bowel cancer screen kit puts health in your hands

From August 14, free bowel cancer screening will be offered across Nelson, Tasman and Marlborough for people aged between 60 and 74 years-old.

2 August 2018

Bowel cancer survivor encourages people to get checked

As bowel screening programmes continue rolling out across the country, a cancer survivor is urging people to get on board. Read more:

11 July 2018

New Zealand's Silent Killer

Why does NZ have one of the highest incidences of bowel cancer in the world and why does the southern district have some of the highest rates?

9 July 2018

International food day fundraiser at Cottonsoft

Thank you to our sponsor CottonSoft who held an international food day fundraiser in support of Bowel Cancer Awareness Month.

2 July 2018

Southlanders strike the stigma surrounding bowel cancer

Southlanders on Tuesday 26th of June helped to open the conversation surrounding one of the country’s most prevalent diseases. Read more:

28 June 2018

Pacific people speak about living with bowel cancer – 'It's hard to describe'

More Māori and Pasifika people are likely to die of bowel cancer than any other ethnic group in New Zealand, according to a recent study.

27 June 2018

Faces of bowel cancer: Survival worst for Māori and Pacific people

Don’t be afraid to talk about poos and bums – it just might save your life, bowel cancer survivors say. Read more here:

26 June 2018

World-first Kiwi research links toxic gut bug to bowel cancer

A University of Otago Christchurch research team found the common and usually helpful gut bug, bacteroides fragilis, is toxic in some people.

18 June 2018

Never too young to check for signs of bowel cancer

Her son’s story showed bowel cancer, often perceived as an older person’s disease, could strike at any age. Read more here:

11 June 2018

Māori, Pasifika more likely to die from bowel cancer - study

Pacific and Māori people with bowel cancer tended to seek medical help at a later stage, so were treated when the cancer was more advanced.

11 June 2018

New three-million dollar gastroenterology unit opens at Dunedin Hospital

Tune into TVNZ News on the new gastroenterology unit that has now opened in Dunedin. Find out more about this story here:

11 June 2018

Southern DHB opens $3.2m hospital unit in Dunedin

Dunedin Hospital’s new gastroenterology department is expected to help a region with one of the highest bowel cancer mortality rates in NZ.

11 June 2018

Never Too Young campaign focus for Bowel Cancer Awareness Month

We are calling on the Prime Minister to adopt the same hard-line, “zero tolerance” approach to cancer deaths that she is to COVID.

31 May 2018

When a 'funny tummy' is cancer: Never Too Young campaigner's life-saving advice

Lambourne is joining nine “young” Kiwis in the Never Too Young campaign, which aims to raise awareness of bowel cancer among younger people.

22 May 2018

Shortland Street stars Amelia Reid-Meredith & Ria Vandervis run for a cause

Two Kiwi celebs have taken on the challenge of the 2018 Saint Clair Vineyard Half Marathon in a battle against bowel cancer.

1 May 2018

Bowel Screening Programme has started in the South

The national bowel cancer screening programme has begun in the Southern District Health Board region. Read more here:

26 April 2018

People missed for screening unacceptable to Bowel Cancer New Zealand

We are calling on the Prime Minister to adopt the same hard-line, “zero tolerance” approach to cancer deaths that she is to COVID.

18 April 2018

Revealed: Hundreds more missed from bowel cancer screening

Hundreds of New Zealanders missed out on potentially life-saving bowel cancer screening because of another problem with sending invitations.

16 April 2018

Memory of friend drives bowel cancer fundraiser

Friends Fiona Laing and Natalie Savigny are taking on the challenge of walking the entire 152km to raise money and awareness. Read more:

3 April 2018

Why bowel cancer is a national emergency

We have one of the highest rates of bowel cancer deaths in the Western world: in NZ 40% of sufferers die from the disease. Read more:

1 April 2018

Lives being saved already by bowel screening

About eight lives have already been saved in Hutt Valley and Wairarapa by bowel screening, according to experts. Read more:

29 March 2018

Waitemata DHB warnings ignored by Ministry of Health

We are calling on the Prime Minister to adopt the same hard-line, “zero tolerance” approach to cancer deaths that she is to COVID.

20 March 2018

FIT Kit Colonoscopy Plea

We believe people who return positive tests with bowel screening kits should be able to get direct access to publicly funded colonoscopies.

6 March 2018

Professional athlete with bowel cancer takes on Auckland Round the Bays run for awareness

All the best to Brit Chambers who will be running in the Ports of Auckland Round the Bays this coming Sunday! Read more here:

2 March 2018

Person dies following bowel screening computer glitch

Three people developed bowel cancer with one whom died after 2500 Waitemata residents weren't invited to a screening due to a computer glitch.

13 February 2018

Simple Test Saved My Life

One Dunedin man is incredibly grateful, after taking a simple test saved his life. And he wants to encourage others to do the same.

6 February 2018

Bowel Screening Delay Won't Affect South

The Southern DHB are now a little bit further ahead in terms of being able to provide a screening programme.

22 January 2018

New Blood Test to Screen for the Eight Common Cancers

Could a simple blood test help us detect bowel cancer? Trialed on more that 1000 people already diagnosed with cancer the results look good.

22 January 2018

Bowel Cancer Research Group

It is possible that psychological interventions could improve the quality of life of people who have had bowel cancer.

19 January 2018

Who's at risk of Bowel Cancer?

Amit H. Sachdev and Frank G. Gress share some of the best ways to prevent colon cancer. Find out more here.

19 January 2018

Could Broccoli Yogurt Prevent Bowel Cancer?

A new study suggests probiotics and cruciferous vegetables, like broccoli, could be a powerful recipe in the fight against bowel cancer.

16 January 2018

GP Pushes for Cancer Ops

When Kevin and Kay Small experienced identical symptoms at the same time, they both thought that they had eaten too many oysters on holiday.

16 January 2018

Bowel Symptoms Often Ignored

Powerful stories are emerging in our study of bowel cancer sufferers that will highlight symptoms people often ignore. Read more here:

11 January 2018

Sheree Insley's push to raise awareness of cancer triggering Lynch Syndrome

The 40-year-old also hoped to raise awareness about the syndrome, which affects between three and five per cent of Kiwis. Read more here:

8 January 2018

Running for Rosco - NYC Marathon

Mat and his wife Kristy setup an Everyday Hero fundraising page and Mat ran the NYC Marathon in Rosco’s memory. Read more here:

14 December 2017

Craig's Story

Craig has shared his story with us after his beloved sister Megs passed away in 2013 from Bowel Cancer. Read more here:

5 December 2017

Living with a stoma bag isn’t miserable – it gives you a new lease of life

For a number of bowel cancer patients, a well-functioning stoma is more preferable than a bowel that is not functioning well. Read more:

27 November 2017

Alcohol causes seven cancers, top doctors warn

The more alcohol you drink, the more likely you are to develop at least seven types of cancer, oncologists warn. Read more here:

15 November 2017

Scientists 'completely CURE' bowel cancer in mice using a form of pioneering immunotherapy

Scientists say they have ‘completely’ cured bowel cancer using a pioneering form of immunotherapy. Read more here:

9 November 2017

ASB Auckland Marathon 2017 a fundraising success

With everyone’s amazing efforts we managed to fundraise over $18,942.00, which will go a long way to helping us continue our mission.

9 November 2017

South Canterbury bowel cancer screening could save Māori lives

A programme to detect and treat bowel cancer early could help save the lives of Māori who are often reluctant to engage with health services.

1 November 2017

Cancer patients diagnosed early are more likely to avoid chemotherapy

Research in the UK shows how important an early diagnosis is for simplifying the treatment options as much as possible. Read more:

30 October 2017

Amie Richardson: Why I'll keep on running

For the Auckland Marathon, we have an amazing team of runners and supporters and among them is a team “Running for Ruth”. Read more:

10 October 2017

October is Cheese Month

October is a nationwide celebration of cheesemaking. And I’m sure you are all wondering why we are talking about cheese! Read more here:

5 October 2017

The guide to 'the perfect poo'

Abnormal number twos can be an early indicator of serious health issues such as bowel cancer or Crohn's disease. Read more here:

2 October 2017

The ASB Auckland Marathon Runner's Story

Jenna is dusting off her running shoes to raise awareness for bowel cancer by running in the ASB Auckland Marathon. Read more here:

2 October 2017

Immunotherapy drugs the future of cancer treatment

New Zealand Cancer Society medical director Chris Jackson agreed it was an exciting area of emerging research. Read more here:

1 October 2017

Cottonsoft's annual bake-off fundraising for Bowel Cancer New Zealand

This year the team at Cottonsoft in Auckland baked cakes and their colleagues at the Dunedin site decided to hold a Pizza-Off … yummy!

26 September 2017

What I learnt when I was diagnosed with bowel cancer at 25

It might be perceived as an older person’s illness, but Adele Kinghan was fit, healthy, and 25 when she was diagnosed with bowel cancer.

26 September 2017

Concern results release may overload system

Demand for colonoscopies could put the national bowel screening programme at risk if participants were given full test results. Read more:

28 August 2017

CANGO ask parties to commit to Cancer issues

CANGO are asking all political parties to commit to cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, research and survivorship. Read more:

9 August 2017

Generous donation from the Papakura Sea Eagles Rugby League Club

A big shout out to the Papakura Sea Eagles Rugby League Club for their generous donation of $3,000 to Bowel Cancer New Zealand!

2 August 2017

Sunday TVNZ - Silent Killer

Bowel cancer kills 1200 kiwis a year. For men its as common as prostate cancer, for women, as common as breast cancer. Read more:

27 July 2017

Bringing bowel cancer prevention to the masses

After five years of trialing and planning, New Zealand starts to see bowel screening introduced to the wider population this month.

20 July 2017

Up to 700 cases expected to be detected in bowel cancer screening roll out

National bowel-screening programme will begin its roll out in the Wairarapa and Hutt Valley. Find out more here:

18 July 2017

'You hear too many stories of people not being referred'

The 39-year-old Christchurch mother was checked by her GP, who found nothing but referred her for a colonoscopy. Read more:

13 July 2017

Christchurch hospitals offering free clinics to help diagnose bowel cancer

Canterbury Charity Hospital and St George’s Hospital are offering a free clinic to help diagnose bowel cancer. Read more:

12 July 2017

Life lives here: Fighting bowel cancer - June Awareness Month

Bowel Cancer New Zealand are delighted that Trade Me are on board to help us raise awareness for our annual Bowel Cancer Awareness Month.

21 June 2017

Bowel cancer awareness month timely reminder of high rate in Otago-Southland

It could have been so easy to ignore it, to think the pain would have cleared in a day or two. Read more here:

20 June 2017

National Volunteer Week 18-24th June 2017

This week is National Volunteer Week and the theme for this year is “Live, laugh, share — Volunteer” or “Kia ringa hora: Me mahi tūao.”

20 June 2017

Peter's story

I had the colonoscopy and the Dr broke to me the news that I had bowel cancer and I was to see him at his surgery the next day.

12 June 2017

Saint Clair Vineyard Half Marathon 2017 - over $60,000 fundraised!

We are super stoked that we have totally SMASHED our goal of fundraising $50,000 at the recent Saint Clair Vineyard Half. Read more:

23 May 2017

Late diagnosis means more young Kiwis getting bowel cancer

Auckland woman Kim Girbin reported stomach pains to her GP for three years before a shock diagnosis of terminal bowel cancer in June.

9 October 2016

Sarah Derrett Podcasts

Bowel Cancer New Zealand executive member Sarah Derrett talks with Kirsty Wing and Natalie Reynolds about their experiences with bowel cancer.

11 July 2016

Scott's Story

In August 2014 I was diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer, which had spread to lymph nodes up the left hand side of my body to my neck.

1 June 2016

2016 Budget Announcement - 'A step in the right direction'

“Today’s announcement will begin to turn around our world-worst bowel cancer death rates”, says Sarah Derrett. Read more here:

27 May 2016

Pressure on Government to announce nationwide bowel cancer screening

Doctors are calling for the Government to announce plans for a staged rollout of nationwide bowel cancer screening in this month’s Budget.

24 May 2016

CottonSofts 'Show you Care' Campaign

CottonSofts are continuing their support for Bowel Cancer New Zealand, with a limited edition pack to help raise funds. Read more:

24 May 2016

Determined Mum's rollercoaster cancer journey

At 33 weeks pregnant with her second child, the last thing a young Feilding mother expected was to be diagnosed with bowel cancer.

11 March 2016

NZ falling behind on cancer survival

Researchers estimated about 12 percent of New Zealand deaths from cancer within five years of diagnosis could be avoided. Read more here:

6 March 2016

New Zealand lags behind Australia's improved bowel cancer survival rates

We are calling on the Prime Minister to adopt the same hard-line, “zero tolerance” approach to cancer deaths that she is to COVID.

4 March 2016

Bowel cancer screening needs a lot of work

The Cancer Society says the Government should implement the proposed national bowel cancer screening programme. Read more here:

4 March 2016

Why are so many southern New Zealanders dying of bowel cancer?

The 35-year-old is way outside the screening age band, had no family history and a healthy, active lifestyle. Read more here:

20 February 2016

Sigmoidoscopy is nothing but a distraction

Bowel Cancer New Zealand believes screening using sigmoidoscopy is a distraction from the pressing need for a national screening program.

20 February 2016

Upper Hutt cyclist takes on Karapoti Classic after cancer treatment

A woman who biked right through chemotherapy will take on one of off-road cycling’s ultimate challenges – the Karapoti Classic.

19 February 2016