REGISTRATIONS NOW OPEN
The World Indigenous Cancer Network and Hei Āhuru Mōwai Māori Cancer Leadership Aotearoa invite you to TĀMAKI MAKAURAU, Auckland, AOTEAROA, New Zealand for the 2026 World Indigenous Cancer Conference (W.I.C.C. 2026) at the Due Drop Events Centre, 21—23 April 2026.
This promises to be a joyful gathering with more than 600 researchers, clinicians, whānau (family), rangatahi (youth), and advocates coming together in a space of deep connection, learning, and cultural celebration.
Standard rate: NZD$825 + GST ($123.75) per person
Your registration includes full access to all sessions, exhibitions and marketplace stalls. Additional costs for the breakfast symposiums and farewell dinner.
Nau mai, Haere mai
Welcome to W.I.C.C 2026
Featured Speakers
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Dr. Nicole Redvers
Canada
A global leader and champion for Indigenous perspectives on human and planetary health and integrative medicine.
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Dr. Rodney Haring
United States of America
A leading cancer researcher, mentor, health communicator, and expert on treaty conversations.
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Sir Prof. Collin Tukuitonga
Pacific
A visionary Pacific health advocate driving equity and culturally grounded public health and integrative medicine
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Prof. Bev Lawton
Aotearoa, New Zealand
A trailblazer in Māori health research and women’s health advocacy, shaping evidence-based care and health policy.
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Assoc. Prof Lisa Whop
Australia
A respected epidemiologist driving cancer screening and prevention for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
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Prof. Jacquie Kidd
Aotearoa, New Zealand
A leader in community focussed Māori health research.
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Lea Bill
Canada
Cree nurse, Indigenous Knowledge Holder and national advocate for cancer equity.
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Prof. Jason Gurney
Aotearoa, New Zealand
Epidemiologist driving equity-focused cancer research for Māori.
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Dr. Dr Maile Tauali‘i
Hawai’i
Indigenous public health leader tackling health inequities and championing Native Hawaiian wellbeing.
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Prof. Sue Crengle
Aotearoa, New Zealand
Renowned Māori health researcher focussed on health inequities, health services research and quality of care, youth health and cardiovascular disease.
Sponsorship and Exhibition Packages
This is your opportunity to stand alongside Indigenous-led solutions and demonstrate your organisations’ commitment to health equity.
Our sponsorship packages, inspired by ngā manu (native birds), reflect the strength, guidance, and resilience of Te Ao Māori. Each tier offers a unique way to connect, contribute, and be seen.
Get in touch with us to learn more about how you can partner with us at wicc2026@heiahurumowai.org.nz
Indigenous Marketplace
We’re inviting Indigenous-owned businesses and collectives to be part of the Indigenous Marketplace — a vibrant space for creativity, entrepreneurship, and cultural exchange.
Showcase your taonga (treasures, goods), share your stories, and present your innovations to over 600 delegates from Aotearoa and around the world, including health professionals, researchers, and community leaders.
Contact us at wicc2026@heiahurumowai.org.nz
Our people and tikanga (culture) await you
Auckland is the largest and most connected city in Aotearoa New Zealand. W.I.C.C. 2026 will be held at Due Drop Events Centre in Manukau, a community-owned venue operated by the Waka Pacific Trust, right in the heart of one of the most culturally diverse communities in the Pacific. You will be welcomed into a city rich in Māori and Pasifika culture, surrounded by harbours, volcanic landscapes, and world-class hospitality.
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Easy to reach from anywhere in the world
Auckland is the Pacific's most connected city, with 30 international airlines flying direct from 43 destinations. Over 540 weekly international flights and 150+ arrivals every day.
Due Drop Events Centre in Manukau is approximately 20 minutes from Auckland Airport, making it one of the most convenient conference venues for travelling delegates.
For delegates who may have existing travel arrangements to Rotorua, it is a short 40-minute domestic flight from Auckland with Air New Zealand, or a scenic 2.5-hour drive.
New Zealand is serviced by Star Alliance, oneworld and SkyTeam.
See world map travel times
Contact us for your travel queries at wicc2026@heiahurumowai.org.nz
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Options near the venue
Ramada Suites - 1min walking distance / $190.00 - $420.00 price per night
The Sebel Manukau - 6min walking distance / $249.00 - $289.00 price per night
Proximity Manukau Apartments - 23mins walking distance / $220.00 - $290.00 price per night
MCentral Apartments Manukau - 22mins walking distance / From $190 price per night
We are finalising further accommodation options near Due Drop Events Centre and will continue to update this page regularly.
Manukau and the surrounding South Auckland area offer a range of hotels at various price points, many within a short drive of the venue and the airport.
If you have existing accommodation booked in Rotorua, please check directly with your provider regarding their cancellation or amendment policies.
Further details are available on our website FAQs.
Contact us for your accommodation queries at wicc2026@heiahurumowai.org.nz
A word from your hosts
World Indigenous Cancer Network (WICN) Convenor for Aotearoa New Zealand, Dr Kimiora Henare, together with Professor Jacquie Kidd and Hei Āhuru Mōwai CEO Anna‑Marie Ruhe, are proud to welcome the World Indigenous Cancer Network and all delegates to Aotearoa in April 2026.
The people of Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland, stand ready to open the gateway to our beautiful country and extend their manaakitanga to you.
We are honoured to host this gathering and look forward to the rich exchange of Indigenous culture, knowledge, lived experience, practice, research, networks, and fresh perspectives—each vital to improving cancer prevention, treatment, and outcomes for our peoples.
Mark your calendars and begin preparing for this haerenga (journey) of discovery, connection, and joyful cultural exchange. Stand with us in the wisdom of the whakataukī:
Mā te whakātu ka mōhio, mā te mōhio ka mārama,
mā te mārama ka mātau, mā te mātau ka ora.
With discussion comes knowledge, with knowledge comes understanding,
with understanding comes wisdom, with wisdom comes wellbeing.
Dr. Kimiora Henare
W.I.C.C 2026 Convenor & Co-chair Scientific Programme
Prof. Jacquie Kidd
Hei Āhuru Mōwai
Co-chair
Anna-marie Ruhe
Hei Āhuru Mōwai
Tumuaki - CEO
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