About RDNZ
An umbrella group for rare disorders in New Zealand
The New Zealand Organisation for Rare Disorders (NZORD) was established in September 2000, and changed its name to Rare Disorders NZ (RDNZ) in 2019.
RDNZ offers a central starting point for patients and families affected by rare disorders, and helps families, patients and healthcare providers find essential information and support groups.
RDNZ is the only umbrella group for rare disorders in New Zealand and provides a strong common voice to advocate for an equitable healthcare system that works for the 300,000 Kiwis with a rare condition.
RDNZ is a member of Rare Diseases International and the Asia Pacific Alliance of Rare Disease Organisations (APARDO).
Our mission
To champion and amplify the collective voice of New Zealanders with rare disorders, advocating for access to world class and world leading health, disability, education and other services.
Our vision
Best possible health and wellbeing for people and whānau living with rare disorders in New Zealand/Aotearoa.
Values
Aroha
We will demonstrate love, compassion, empathy and respect for people living with rare disorders and we will support and encourage our stakeholders to do likewise.
Whakamana
We will advocate assertively and constructively with strength and resilience, supporting communities of people living with rare disorders to be similarly empowered.
Manawa rahi
We will steadfastly and stout-heartedly maintain an unwavering evidence-based commitment to the RDNZ cause.
Kotahitanga
We will exhibit unity, cohesion and collaboration both internally as a team of staff and volunteers, and externally in our relationships both with New Zealand’s rare disorders community and supporters, and internationally.
Tiakitanga
We will do everything we can to sustain, protect and respect the viability and reputation of our organisation, our fellow team members, those living with rare disorders and the physical, cultural and spiritual environments which sustain us.
Did you know...?
The RDNZ logo features a kōtare, the New Zealand kingfisher. Kingfishers are found throughout New Zealand in a wide range of habitats and are common, but rarely seen compared to other birds. Māori admired kōtare for being like a watchful sentry.
Our logo has a sense of action and uplifting movement which fits the continued aims of our organisation.
Connect with us
Keep up to date with our work by signing up to our regular newsletter. We contact our supporters roughly once per month, and you can unsubscribe at any time.
