All HRC funding rounds are open to Māori health research and researchers. In addition, we have dedicated funding for Māori health research through our Rangahau Hauora Māori research investment stream and the opportunities below. For all upcoming funding opportunities, please refer to our Funding Calendar.
Rangahau Hauora Māori research investment stream
The purpose of this research investment stream is to build an evidence base which contributes to Māori health gains. Research funded through this stream is derived from high-quality Māori health research that upholds rangatiratanga (Māori leadership) and advances Māori knowledge, resources and people. This is research that values Māori worldviews and builds Māori research capacity and leadership.
Research funded through this stream is expected to demonstrate a commitment to the core values of mana, tika, manaakitanga and whakapapa, and recognise that Māori health research teams operate within the broader context of their communities. The distinctive features of research in scope for the HRC's Rangahau Hauora Māori funding can be found in this Investment Stream document.
The Rangahau Hauora Māori investment stream is applicable to all the rounds we run annually, including:
Emerging Researcher First Grants
People-focused funding
We also have a number of career development awards available to specifically support the growth and development of the Māori health research workforce. See below for opportunities specific to Māori health researchers.
Māori Health Research Summer Studentships
Rangahau Hauora Training Grant
Māori Health Research Masters Scholarships
Māori Health Research PhD Scholarships
Māori Health Research Postdoctoral Fellowships
Māori Health Research Emerging Leader Fellowship
Māori Health Research Development Grant
Māori Health Research Knowledge Translation Grant
New He Ara Whakahihiko – Hauora Fund
On 8 January 2026, the Health Research Council of New Zealand will launch the He Ara Whakahihiko – Hauora Fund, a new funding round designed to strengthen Māori health research capability, establish clear pathways to impact, and deliver both health and economic benefits. This fund replaces our Ngā Kanohi Kitea Community Advancement Fund.
The fund forms part of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s (MBIE’s) wider He Ara Whakahihiko Capability Fund and has been established to administer funding that supports the health/hauora objectives of MBIE's broader investment framework.
Through this fund, we are seeking to support high-quality biomedical and/or clinical research that will contribute to improving Māori health outcomes. You can find out more on our online funding portal, HRC Gateway.