Rotorua and Hei Āhuru Mōwai Māori Cancer Leadership Aotearoa have successfully won the bid to host the World Indigenous Cancer Conference 2026. Photo Credit: Paul Michael
With support from Tourism New Zealand Business Events and RotoruaNZ, Rotorua and Hei Āhuru Mōwai Māori Cancer Leadership Aotearoa have successfully won the bid to host the World Indigenous Cancer Conference (WICC) 2026.
The bi-annual WICC, now in its fourth edition, provides a platform for Indigenous communities to address the disproportionate cancer burden they face, identify research priorities and exchange transformative approaches.
WICC 2026 is expecting to welcome 600 health professionals, researchers, clinicians, and advocates from around the globe to Aotearoa New Zealand to collaborate on culturally grounded solutions for cancer care. Along with their families, this influx of travellers in April 2026 is expected to deliver an estimated economic benefit of $1m.
Tourism New Zealand’s global manager business events Penelope Ryan said: “Hosting the World Indigenous Cancer Conference will enhance New Zealand's reputation as a leader in Indigenous knowledge and innovation. Additionally, it supports year-round tourism to New Zealand by bringing international visitors to our shores in April, after our peak summer season.”
WICC delegates will have a chance to experience the region’s rich Māori culture and heritage, said Vanessa Wallace, business events manager at RotoruaNZ. “Beyond cultural exchange, the event will generate significant economic opportunities for Rotorua, with local businesses benefiting from increased tourism and engagement, ensuring long-term growth for our region,” she added.
Conference as a platform for change
WICC 2026 will be structured around Māori tikanga (protocols), values and storytelling, ensuring Indigenous perspectives are embedded in every aspect of the event. Beyond academic and scientific presentations, the programme will celebrate Māori culture, incorporating Rotorua’s world-renowned attractions and authentic cultural experiences to provide delegates with a meaningful and enriching visit.
Emphasising the significance of Indigenous representation in driving global solutions, Hei Āhuru Mōwai chief executive Gary Thompson also highlighted the stark inequities faced by Māori, who are more likely to be diagnosed at later stages and experience poorer outcomes compared to non-Māori.
“This conference is about solutions — turning these disparities around and empowering Indigenous communities worldwide. We aim to build a strong international network of Indigenous cancer leadership and formalise our collective efforts through the WICC.”