Epilepsy New Zealand

06/10/2026

Forbidden Pharmacy
Many New Zealanders are unable to access over 200 effective medicines already available in other OECD countries. For countless patients, waiting for another election cycle just isn’t feasible. Let’s come together to create change and ensure everyone receives the healthcare they deserve. Sign the open letter https://www.forbiddenpharmacy.org/

04/10/2026

The ABC's of Epilepsy

Recognising your specific type of epilepsy is key to managing and treating it effectively. For example, generalised seizures involve unusual electrical activity in both brain hemispheres at once. By identifying your epilepsy subtype, you can get a more personalised treatment plan, enhancing your health and providing better outcomes.
If you want help or more information, contact our educators on 0800 374537 or go to our website and find your regional educator. https://epilepsy.org.nz/about-us/our-people/
* Please note that the information shared in this series is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We always recommend consulting your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding your or your loved one's symptoms or condition.

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03/10/2026

Train 5 Keep 5-Campaign
This campaign revolves around a straightforward, actionable request: Train five. Keep five. New Zealand trains up to five neurologists annually; however, it only finances approximately three positions in public hospitals. This discrepancy results in a loss of specialists to private practice or overseas, even as the demand for neurological care continues to grow. The Election is taking place on 7th November 2026, and we are asking politicians for two straightforward party commitments:
1. Fund two additional public hospital neurology positions each year. This would allow New Zealand to train five and keep five, rather than continuing to lose specialists to private practice or overseas because funded roles are not available.
2. Commit to a national neurological workforce strategy. New Zealand needs a planned approach to current and future neurological demand, including training, recruitment, retention, regional access, follow-up care and the needs of people living with chronic neurological conditions.

01/10/2026

The ABC's of Epilepsy

Identifying the specific type of epilepsy or epilepsy syndrome is essential, as it plays a crucial role in guiding safe and effective treatment while also helping to set expectations for the future. Different types of epilepsy require varying medications; for instance, some anti-seizure drugs that are effective for focal seizures may make generalised seizures worse.
If you want help or more information, contact our educators on 0800 374537 or go to our website and find your regional educator. https://epilepsy.org.nz/about-us/our-people/
* Please note that the information shared in this series is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We always recommend consulting your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding your or your loved one's symptoms or condition.

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01/10/2026

LET'S TALK ABOUT IT- NOVEMBER'S CAMPAIGN

Each year we do a campaign where you have a chance to 'Talk About It'. People share their stories of life with epilepsy. They can stay anonymous if they wish but have the opportunity to share their experiences with others. What specific questions would you like others to answer if you knew nothing about epilepsy?
Add your questions in the comments.

30/09/2026

Today our Thursday Thank You goes to two district councils, both in the lower North Island.

Thank to Whanganui District Council, who cover a pretty large geographical area outside the city. Their support is helping Dianne in delivering epilepsy information, advocacy and training in the region.

And heading further south, thank you to Horowhenua District Council. Levin has an long running Epilepsy Support Group and support for Fuel and salary costs will help Judith can make it along, in addition to supporting the local community.

There are a diverse range of councils all across New Zealand, ranging from huge to small and we're grateful for those that chose to support us through grants like these.

https://www.whanganui.govt.nz/

https://www.horowhenua.govt.nz/

29/09/2026

Wills Month

It takes just 10 minutes to write your legally valid Will. Designed by lawyers and trusted by over 230,000 people. The Gathered Here platform is funded by 1,000+ charities who want to make Will-writing (and leaving a legacy) accessible for everyone. Epilepsy New Zealand is one of those charities assisting this platform to be able to provide free Will writing for all.
After you have cared for all your loved ones, the next step is s completely optional, 1 in 3 people who use this platform choose to leave a bequest to charity; we hope you may consider Epilepsy NZ.
Follow this link to get started https://everywill.co.nz/c/epilepsy-nz

29/09/2026

Open Letter Launch and Campaign Update- Have You Signed?
The open letter was initiated alongside the launch of the Forbidden Pharmacy campaign in August and will remain active until the election. With over 10,000 signatures already collected, it is vital that we continue to gather more to maintain pressure on all parties. We are advocating for lasting change, regardless of who forms the next government.
The two main requests for the new administration are:
To fund Pharmac’s backlog of approved medicines within the next parliamentary term.
To commit to a ten-year funding pathway that aligns New Zealand more closely with other OECD countries.
Currently, there are three epilepsy medications on the Options for Investment list awaiting funding, with Perampanel being the one we have particularly emphasised. These medications would provide vital assistance to individuals living with uncontrolled epilepsy, as the existing treatments are ineffective for managing their seizures.
Follow the link to sign the letter to make the change.

Hundreds of life-changing medicines are out of reach for New Zealanders. They need your voice.

27/09/2026

The ABC's of Epilepsy

Epilepsy is estimated to impact approximately 50 million individuals globally, ranking it among the most prevalent brain disorders, alongside migraines, Alzheimer’s, and strokes. The outcomes for those affected can differ significantly based on factors such as the type of seizure, its location, and the severity of the condition. While many individuals can lead fulfilling and joyful lives once treated, it is unfortunate that around 25% of those with epilepsy find it challenging to manage their seizures effectively.
If you want help or more information, contact our educators on 0800 374537 or go to our website and find your regional educator. https://epilepsy.org.nz/about-us/our-people/
* Please note that the information shared in this series is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We always recommend consulting your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding your or your loved one's symptoms or condition.

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25/09/2026

Community Fundraiser -DUBAI BROWNIES FOR A CAUSE 💜 4 PACK

Basic AZ Bakes has a family connection to epilepsy, and because of this, they have decided to do a fundraiser for our 70th year in Service. They are donating all the proceeds made from the sale of the 70 delicious Dubai Brownies to Epilepsy New Zealand. You can eat something yummy and not feel guilty, knowing your money is supporting a great cause.
To order your brownies, go to :
https://basicazbakes.co.nz/products/dubai-brownies-for-a-cause-%F0%9F%92%9C?_pos=1&_sid=a9b4b9964&_ss=r

Fudgy brownies loaded with pistachio spread and golden katifi pastry. Ships every Wednesday — limited batch. Order online from Basic Az Bakes NZ.