New Blog Post Migraine, peri-menopause, traumatic brain injury & Parkinson’s disease: Neurological Foundation funds $3M of innovative Kiwi neuro-research

Pioneering brain researchers at centres across New Zealand are receiving $3 million from the Neurological Foundation, fuelling investigation into a range of conditions including migraine, peri-menopause, traumatic brain injury & Parkinson’s disease. 

Announcing the most recent grants today, CEO Rich Easton says it’s an optimistic way to kick off the new year. 

“With neurological conditions directly impacting one in three Kiwis, the need for advances and breakthroughs is great,” says Easton. “We know that times are tough for researchers right now, and funding is increasingly hard to come by.  

“The calibre of applications in our latest round was very high. With the support of our generous donors, we’re pleased to be able to invest in some really exciting research that will hopefully make a genuine difference in Kiwis’ lives.” 

He noted that successful applicants were spread across five centres: Auckland, Waikato, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin. “This shows the interconnected nature of neuro research and illustrates the fact that great work is happening across Aotearoa,” says Easton. “It’s vitally important to keep supporting this ecosystem.” 

He noted this new funding closely follows a significant $4M investment in neurological research via the Foundation’s inaugural programmes and platforms grants, announced in late November 2025.  

About the latest grants: 

Total number of grants awarded:  27  

Total amount awarded: $3,182,514 

Read about the grants here: 2025 Round B Grant Recipients | Neurological Foundation