Registrations open for global Indigenous cancer conference in Rotorua, New Zealand
Earlybird registrations are now open for the World Indigenous Cancer Conference 2026 (W.I.C.C. 2026), which will take place from 20-24 April at the Energy Events Centre, Rotorua, Aotearoa New Zealand. This marks the fourth edition of the conference and the first time it will be hosted in Aotearoa – bringing a globally significant gathering to the heart of Te Ika-a-Māui.
The World Indigenous Cancer Conference 2026 (W.I.C.C. 2026) plays a vital role in addressing the urgent and ongoing disparities in cancer care by Indigenous communities worldwide. Recent global research and initiatives have underscored the need for culturally grounded, community led approaches to improve outcomes across the cancer continuum, from prevention and screening to treatment, survivorship, healing and palliative care.
By uniting more than 600 researchers, clinicians, specialists, advocates, whānau and rangatahi, W.I.C.C. 2026 offers a unique platform to promote cancer research priorities, and exchange transformative approaches tailored to Indigenous communities.
Hei Āhuru Mōwai, the national Māori Cancer Leadership Network, is proud to host this biennial conference for the first time in Aotearoa New Zealand and in our cultural heart, on the whenua of Rotorua.
“Nau mai, haere mai – Hei Āhuru Mōwai invites delegates to register now, mark your calendars, and prepare to share mātauranga (knowledge) in this welcoming space,” says Hei Āhuru Mōwai Tumuaki and W.I.C.C. 2026 co-convener, Gary Thompson.
“This is more than a conference – it’s a movement to reclaim Indigenous sovereignty in health, uplift our stories, and build a future where whānau not only survive cancer but thrive beyond it.”
Delegates can take advantage of the earlybird registration savings, available now until 28 September 2025. This discounted rate offers full access to the Pōwhiri Welcome on Monday 20 April, as well as the complete programme of keynote speakers, presentations, panel discussions and exhibitors Tuesday 21 - Thursday 23 April 2026.
Dr Kimiora Hēnare, co-chair of the W.I.C.C. 2026 Scientific Committee and member of Hei Āhuru Mōwai, is guiding the team of experts tasked with selecting research, presentations, expert panellists and keynote speakers to feature at next year’s conference.
“This is a unique opportunity to share cancer research and insights underpinned by Indigenous knowledge systems centring people and whānau,” says Dr Hēnare.
“We'd love to receive abstracts from people right across the cancer care continuum - prevention, screening, treatment, survivorship, healing, palliative care, and end-of-life care.”
Researchers, practitioners, and thought leaders are invited to submit abstracts for consideration by the conference committee. Submissions can be made using the online form and must be received by 12 September 2025.
Te Aho o Te Kahu – Cancer Control Agency is proud to support Hei Āhuru Mōwai W.I.C.C. 2026 to bring local experts together and international cancer control and cancer care leaders to our shores. Both organisations are aligned in their vision to achieve fewer cancers, better survival, and equity for all.
“The World Indigenous Cancer Conference 2026 is a unique opportunity where Indigenous health leaders, researchers, clinicians, advocates, rangatahi and policymakers can share insights, evidence and learnings to focus on reducing the impact of cancer and improving health outcomes for all Indigenous peoples including Māori,” says Tumuaki Chief Executive Te Aho o Te Kahu, Rami Rahal.
W.I.C.C. 2026 promises to be a joyful gathering of hearts over four jam-packed conference days. There are a range of sponsorship opportunities available to organisations who share our vision and mission in bringing this event to Aotearoa. Please contact w.i.c.c.sponsorship@hpce.co.nz for more information on how you can partner with us.