Cross-Party Parliamentary Group on Rare and Undiagnosed Disorders

On 12 March 2025, a cross-party parliamentary group on rare and undiagnosed disorders (CPGRD) was formally established to increase awareness of rare and undiagnosed disorders within the New Zealand Parliament.

CPGRD, as it will informally be known, aims to support policies and initiatives that enhance equity, wellbeing, and social inclusion for people living with rare or undiagnosed disorders and their families.

At the inaugural meeting National MP Hamish Campbell was elected Chair of the group, and Labour MP Hon. Dr. Ayesha Verrall MP was elected Deputy Chair.

The establishment of the group was supported by Associate Minister of Health Hon. David Seymour, with the first meeting being hosted in the Minister’s office.

The initial members of the group include:

Hamish Campbell - National Party - Chair
Hon. Ayesha Verrall - Labour Party - Deputy Chair
Hon. James Meager - National Party
Sam Uffindell - National Party
Todd Stephenson - ACT Party
Hūhana Lyndon - Green Party
Ingrid Leary - Labour Party
Helen White - Labour Party
Maureen Pugh - National Party
Cameron Luxton - ACT Party

The CPGRD will meet quarterly and Rare Disorders New Zealand will provide secretariat support.