Since 2020, Pacific peoples have experienced the highest annual increase in cancer incidence in New Zealand. Compared with European/other populations, Pacific peoples are 19% more likely to be diagnosed with cancer and 41% more likely to die from cancer.  

The Cancer and Pacific Peoples in Aotearoa New Zealand Report (published 29 October 2026) brings together cancer data and research into Pacific peoples’ experiences of cancer care. It identifies trends, the factors contributing to them, and priority opportunities for action. 

Key insights in the report

Some of the most significant findings in the report include:

• Uterine cancer: Pacific females are almost six times as likely to be diagnosed with uterine cancer and more than six times as likely to die from it as European/other females. 
• Earlier diagnosis: Between 2017 and 2021, one in three Pacific people with cancer were diagnosed within 30 days of an emergency or unplanned hospital admission. This is the highest proportion of any ethnic group and indicates that there may be ‘missed’ opportunities for earlier diagnosis via more appropriate pathways. 
• Bowel cancer: Pacific peoples have the lowest bowel screening participation rates compared to other ethnicities. Similar to other ethnicities, bowel cancer rates among Pacific people aged under 50 are increasing. 
• Breast cancer: Pacific females are diagnosed with breast cancer at younger ages and are more likely to present with advanced disease than European/other females.
• Liver and stomach cancer: Pacific peoples experience high rates of infection-related cancers, including cancers associated with hepatitis B and C and Helicobacter pylori infection. 

The report also highlights improvements where targeted approaches are making a difference. For example, cervical screening coverage has increased significantly following the introduction of HPV primary screening and self-testing, alongside zero-fees cervical screening for priority groups. In addition, daily smoking rates among Pacific peoples fell from 22.6% to 12.3% between 2011 and 2024. 

Where to from here?

The New Zealand Cancer Action Plan 2026–2029 | Te Mahere mō te Mate Pukupuku o Aotearoa 2026–2029 provides a foundation for action, including work to improve prevention, screening and earlier diagnosis; strengthen navigation and workforce capability; and expand access to cancer treatment in rural and community settings. 

Improving cancer outcomes will require coordinated action across the health system, working in partnership with Pacific communities and focusing effort where inequities and need are greatest. 

Download the report and related publications 

Cancer and Pacific Peoples in Aotearoa New Zealand – Insights Report, October 2026 (Pdf 2.75mb)

New Zealand Cancer Action Plan 2026–2029 | Te Mahere mō te Mate Pukupuku o Aotearoa 2026–2029

Publication information