Photo: Supplied via RNZA New Zealand blood cancer patient has been forced to leave his four children behind and make a last chance dash to Australia for treatment. "We are very worried about the future of blood cancer therapy in New Zealand and the welfare of New Zealanders with blood cancer." He hoped that the letter will push the prime minister to work with healthcare professionals on moving blood cancer treatment forward. "We're in a desperate, desperate state at the moment, New Zealanders are dying prematurely from blood cancer and we need to sort it out." Health Minister Simeon Brown said in a statement that improving cancer treatment and outcomes was a key priority.

Source: Otago Daily Times March 11, 2026 21:40 UTC