Growing Knowledge, Changing Lives
Our Vision
Every New Zealander facing mental health challenges deserves answers backed by
evidence, not guesswork. Weโre building a future where homegrown research
transforms lives – where the questions asked reflect our communities, and the
solutions discovered work for everyone in Aotearoa.
Our Purpose
The Whau Mental Health Research Foundation is the only not-for-profit organisation
in Aotearoa solely dedicated to advancing mental health research.
We back the research others wonโt – and the researchers others overlook.
By supporting bold questions and unconventional voices,
weโre turning New Zealandโs mental health knowledge gaps into breakthroughs.
Your support doesnโt just fund research. It gives voice to ideas that might otherwise
be missed, creating solutions that meet the real needs of individuals, whฤnau, and
communities.
The Problem Weโre Solving
Mental health challenges are rising across Aotearoa, yet many of the most
important research questions remain underfunded and unanswered.
International research doesnโt always reflect our unique cultural context, and brilliant
questions often go unasked because researchers canโt access traditional funding.
The result? Opportunities to improve mental health care, influence policy,
and support communities are being missed.
How Weโre Different
We empower the research that falls through the cracks:
– Early-career researchers with bold new ideas
– Community-led projects grounded in lived experience
– Researchers with lived experience turning insight into evidence
And now, we also help promising findings move from discovery to real-world impact – so
new treatments, therapies, and approaches actually reach New Zealanders.
By supporting those overlooked by traditional funding, we ensure research is innovative,
impactful, and is inclusive of communities often left out of the conversation.
The Change Youโre Creating
Your support doesnโt just fund papers. It:
– Empowers research that stands up to scrutiny and stands the test of time
– Grows the next generation of mental health researchers right here in Aotearoa
Nearly 200 research projects have already been made possible thanks to supporters
like you. Together, your generosity builds careers, validates experiences, and creates
solutions designed for New Zealand, by New Zealanders.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What does the Foundation do?
The Whau Mental Health Research Foundation funds and supports high-quality, evidence-based mental health research to improve outcomes for individuals, whฤnau, and communities across Aotearoa New Zealand.
With mental health challenges escalating rapidly, new thinking and urgent action are needed to create real change.
Our mission is clear: advance knowledge, inform better policy, and drive lasting improvements in mental health for future generations
Where does the Foundationโs funding come from?
Our funding comes from a mix of generous individual donors, philanthropic trusts, corporate sponsors, and grant-making bodies. We do not receive any government funding. We also receive in-kind support from organisations who share our vision for better mental health outcomes. Every contribution helps us support world-class research with the power to make a real difference.
Is the Foundation part of the government?
No. We are an independent charitable trust, supported by private donations, grants, and partnerships. This independence helps us remain responsive to community needs and emerging research priorities.
Is the Whau Foundation a registered charity?
Yes, the Whau Foundation is a registered charity.
Is your Board voluntary?
Yes, our Board members generously volunteer their time and expertise. They bring a wealth of experience across governance, mental health, science, research, and are deeply committed to the kaupapa of the Foundation.
Why do we need research?
Research helps us better understand mental health conditions, what causes them, and how best to prevent and treat them. It provides the evidence needed to improve services, develop new therapies, and create policies and practices that make a real difference. By investing in research, we pave the way for better understanding, better treatments, and better outcomes.
Who decides what research gets funded?
Projects are selected through a rigorous process involving peer review, ethical approval, and oversight from our Research Advisory Panel. We fund research that is innovative, evidence-based, and has the potential for real-world impact.
What kind of research do you fund?
We fund research into a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, suicide prevention, youth mental health, addiction, trauma, and eating disorders. We also support projects led by lived experience researchers. Our focus is on evidence-based projects that can create real change for people and communities in Aotearoa.
What does โevidence-basedโ mean?
โEvidence-basedโ refers to practices, decisions, or interventions that are grounded in research and data showing that they are eEective. In the context of mental health research, evidence-based means that the methods or treatments being studied have been tested and proven through rigorous scientific studies.
Do you support PhD students and emerging researchers?
Yes, weโre passionate about supporting the next generation of mental health researchers. We aim to fund projects that include or are led by emerging researchers, including PhD candidates.
How can I support the Foundation?
You can support us through donations, partnerships, fundraising efforts, or by simply spreading the word. Every bit helps.
How can I become a partner of the Foundation?
We welcome partnerships with organisations and businesses that share our commitment to advancing mental health research. Our partners play an essential role in helping us advance our mission.
Can I donate to a specific project or area of research?
Yes. We offer the option to direct your donation to specific areas of research that align with your interests. Please visit our Donate page for more details.
How can I stay updated?
Sign up to our newsletter, follow us on social media, or check out the News section of our website for the latest on our research, events, and impact stories.
Do you offer mental health services?
No, we are not a service provider. Please visit our Where To Get Help page.
