The Meningitis Foundation Aotearoa New Zealand

09/10/2026

Part 2 of all our amazing purple photos for World Meningitis Day

09/10/2026

A HUGE thank you to everyone who was out and about on Monday night, World Meningitis Day, taking photos of our beautiful purple landmarks.

As we’ve had so many, they will be split over 3 posts.

Enjoy scanning through and once again, thank you, from the bottom of our huge purple heart 💜

07/10/2026

The Meningitis Foundation Chair, Ged Rushton, and his wife Claire (also a Board member) talking to the Ashburton Guardian on Monday as part of World Meningitis Day 2026. These two are huge advocates for the Foundation and we appreciate them taking the time out of their busy schedule to do this interview.

https://fb.watch/v/6yJazsvT_/?fs=e

05/10/2026

“I was minutes away from not making it”

On this, World Meningitis Day, we wanted to share a story about an incredible young lady - Claudia. A reminder to us all about how fast this awful disease can move - it can kill in less than 24hours 😢

https://www.odt.co.nz/news/dunedin/i-was-minutes-away-from-not-making-it-dunedin-meningitis-survivor-recounts-ordeal-dwcn3iiz

If you would like to make a donation to support the Foundation’s work, click here https://meningitis.org.nz/make-a-donation/

‘I was minutes away from not making it’: Dunedin meningitis survivor recounts ordeal

04/10/2026

It’s here 💜

World Meningitis Day is today.

A day to remember those we have lost, those who have survived and those who suffer because of this hideous disease.

Check out our earlier post to find a landmark near you. Share your photos and tag us The Meningitis Foundation Aotearoa New Zealand

29/09/2026

Aotearoa New Zealand is going purple for World Meningitis Day! 💜

On 5 October, landmarks across the country will light up to help get people talking about meningitis. It can become serious very quickly, and its effects can stay with people and whānau long after the illness itself. The lights are a way to remember those we’ve lost, stand with those affected, and make the conversation harder to miss.

Now for your part: check the maps, find a purple landmark near you, and go get a photo! 📸 Tag MFANZ when you post it so we can see how far the purple glow reaches - The Meningitis Foundation Aotearoa New Zealand

Which landmark are you heading to?

24/09/2026

21/09/2026

You can look okay and still be recovering.

For some people, meningitis doesn’t end when they leave hospital. Anxiety, low mood, fatigue and changes to memory, concentration or confidence can make returning to work, study and friendships harder than others realise.
When you’re young, the pressure to “get back to normal” can be huge.

This Mental Health Awareness Week, the theme is Belonging Matters. For someone living with hidden effects, belonging can be as simple as being listened to, believed and included. Meningitis doesn’t always leave effects you can see. A little understanding can make recovery feel less lonely.

For more information and downloadable resources, visit https://meningitis.org.nz/resources-archive/

15/09/2026

Ko te reo Māori he taonga. - Te reo Māori is a treasure.

This Te Wiki o te Reo Māori, we celebrate the language, stories and communities that are part of the heart of Aotearoa.
The 2026 focus, Te Reo Towns, encourages us all to help make te reo Māori visible, valued and part of everyday life—in our homes, workplaces and communities.
Whether it’s learning a new kupu, using a familiar greeting or taking the time to pronounce a place name correctly, every small step helps te reo Māori flourish.

One practical way to help protect your whānau is to check whether their meningococcal vaccinations are up to date. Talk with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist about which vaccines are recommended and whether funded vaccination is available.

Ake, Ake, Ake – A Forever Language.
Kia kaha te reo Māori 💜

12/09/2026

Please join us in welcoming Pip Jamieson to the MFANZ Board.

Pip brings extensive experience in leadership, governance, strategic planning and community development, gained through a career spanning the public sector, education, health, not-for-profit organisations and regional development.

Her achievements include more than a decade with the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, where she led regional labour-market planning, major investment programmes and collaboration between government agencies. She has also held senior roles with Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology, Tasman District Council and Nelson City Council.

Pip’s considerable governance experience has seen her serve as Chair, Deputy Chair, Trustee, Director and President across several national and regional organisations, including Swimming New Zealand, YMCA Nelson and the Tasman Broadcasting Trust.
With an MBA from Henley Business School and a strong commitment to community wellbeing, Pip brings valuable strategic insight, relationship-building skills and governance expertise to MFANZ.

We’re delighted to have you on board, Pip, and look forward to working alongside you. 💜