New Zealand Cancer Action Plan 2026-2029

Publication date: 03 July 2026.

The refreshed New Zealand Cancer Action Plan 2026–2029 sets the medium-term direction for cancer care across Aotearoa New Zealand. It builds on investments and progress made since the release of the 2019–2029 Plan (available on the Ministry of Health website), while responding to a changing health environment.

New Zealand has seen important improvements in cancer survival and declining mortality rates over time, due to investment in screening, diagnostics, and treatment. However, the number of people in New Zealand who develop cancer will continue to rise, driven by an aging and growing population. We estimate cancer diagnoses will increase from more than 30,000 in 2025 to over 45,000 by 2044.

The growing demand on services, combined with advances in treatments and technologies such as immunotherapy and artificial intelligence present both challenges and opportunities. This plan helps prepare for the future, with a focus on ensuring the system delivers both continuous improvement in core services, and innovation where it improves outcomes.

Over the next three years, the sector will prioritise:

• Prevention and early detection – reducing risk and improving screening
• Timely diagnosis and treatment – faster pathways and modern therapies
• Workforce and system capability – supporting staff and digital tools
• Person-centred care – services that respect dignity and cultural needs.

Download the Plan

New Zealand Cancer Action Plan 2026–2029 (Word 3.05mb)

New Zealand Cancer Action Plan 2026–2029 (Pdf 1.06mb)