Frequently asked questions

BCC funds innovative research across Aotearoa New Zealand, supporting scientists, researchers and clinicians. Working toward better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.

With limited Government funding, BCC plays a vital role in advancing new discoveries and supporting breast cancer research in Aotearoa. Ensuring that researchers, scientists and clinicians stay focused on advances that will positively affect our NZ population.

BCC supports breakthrough and early-stage research, as well as translational projects that turn scientific discoveries into real-world outcomes for patients.

NZ has such a unique population, that world-class research created right here will have the most benefit and impact for Kiwi’s. Research is essential to improving survival rates, developing more efficient treatments with fewer side effects, faster diagnosis and quality of life, ensuring progress toward a cure for breast cancer.

You can support breast cancer research by donating, taking part in events, purchasing a BCC product, fundraising, or partnering with BCC.

Donations help fund high-impact research projects, supporting New Zealand scientists working to improve outcomes and find a cure for breast cancer.

BCC funds leading New Zealand researchers who are making significant contributions to breast cancer science both locally and globally. Find out more about our researchers.

Ongoing research is leading to faster diagnosis, new treatments, improved understanding of the disease, and meaningful progress toward better outcomes for patients.

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women in New Zealand, with around 1 in 9 women expected to be diagnosed in their lifetime. Each year, approximately 3,700 Kiwis will be diagnosed, and tragically, two women lose their lives every day to the disease. These statistics highlight the urgent need for continued investment in research, early detection, and improved treatments.

There are differences in outcomes across communities, which is why equitable access to research, treatment, and care is so important.

New Zealand researchers are making a strong global impact, contributing innovative ideas and breakthroughs that influence breast cancer treatment worldwide.

While there is no universal cure yet, research continues to make significant progress toward more effective treatments and, ultimately, a cure.

Researchers are continually discovering new insights into how breast cancer develops and responds to treatment, leading to more personalised and effective therapies.

While there is still work to be done, ongoing research is bringing us closer to a future where breast cancer can be effectively treated and cured.

Breast cancer survival rates have improved significantly over time, thanks to advances in early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. Today, outcomes are increasingly positive - particularly when breast cancer is found early. For example, early-stage breast cancer (Stage 1) has an excellent prognosis, with a 5-year relative survival rate of over 99% when detected and treated while localised to the breast.

Overall, breast cancer survival rates continue to rise, with many people living long and healthy lives after diagnosis. However, outcomes can vary depending on the stage and type of breast cancer, which is why ongoing investment in research, awareness, and early detection remains so important.

BCC is solely focused on funding innovative breast cancer research. Every contribution supports projects aimed at improving outcomes and finding a cure, ensuring donations are directed where they can make the greatest impact.

BCC funds pioneering research projects across New Zealand, focused on improving outcomes and ultimately finding a cure. This includes critical work in areas such as triple negative breast cancer and treatment resistance. From breakthrough and early-stage science to translational research that turns discoveries into real-world treatments, BCC is committed to driving meaningful progress for patients.

Newly funded research projects include:

Advancing Breast Cancer Diagnosis with AI-Driven MRI Analysis in Aotearoa 

Dr Thiranja Prasad Babarenda Gamage, University of Auckland - Scientists are creating an AI tool that can read breast MRI scans in under 30 seconds and help doctors find cancer faster and more accurately. The goal is to speed up diagnosis, reduce pressure on radiologists, and make sure all women in New Zealand - especially Māori women, who face higher risks - get the best possible care.

Shielding Macrophages: Uncovering Immune-Medicated Chemoresistance in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Dr Hossein Jahedi, University of Auckland

Recipients of the John Gavin Post Doctoral Fellowship Scientists have discovered certain immune cells that can “protect” triple-negative breast cancer cells from chemotherapy, making the treatment less effective. By figuring out how these cells work and how to block them, researchers hope to predict which patients won’t respond to treatment and find new ways to help the medicine work better.

Next-Generation Homocamptothecin Payloads for Antibody-Drug Conjugates Dr Moana Tercel, University of Auckland

Researchers are developing a new, easier way to make powerful cancer-fighting molecules used in advanced treatments called antibody–drug conjugates. Their work builds on earlier discoveries and could help create better cancer medicines in the future, putting New Zealand at the front of this exciting field.

Dr Marta Seretny, University of Auckland

This project evaluates the feasibility of MRSI/EPSI as a marker for cancer-related cognitive impairment and explores inflammatory blood changes to identify outcome markers for future breast cancer prehabilitation studies.

BCC funds breast cancer research projects in collaboration with New Zealand’s leading research institutes and universities, ensuring a strong pipeline of high-quality, impactful science. We also work closely with the Cancer Research Trust New Zealand (CRTNZ), a strategic funding partnership designed to accelerate high-impact breast cancer research across the country.

Yes, there are a range of events throughout the year that you can join to support breast cancer research and be part of the community – whether as a guest or giving your time as a volunteer. You can also create your own fundraising initiative by taking part in events like Round the Bays or the Auckland Marathon, inviting friends and family to support your efforts.

Businesses can support through donating products and services, partnership, sponsorships, and workplace fundraising initiatives that help drive meaningful impact.

Getting started is simple - choose your idea, set a goal, and rally your community to support breast cancer research. Platforms like Grassrootz make it easy to set up and manage your fundraising efforts.

Yes, donations to BCC are tax deductible in New Zealand. If you are a New Zealand taxpayer, donations of $5 or more may be eligible for a tax credit of up to 33.33%. Be sure to keep your donation receipt, as you’ll need it when submitting your claim to Inland Revenue.

The BCC Tees for a Cure campaign is a bi-annual New Zealand fundraiser featuring a collection of limited-edition tees, hoodies, crews and long sleeve tees created to support life-saving breast cancer research. Leading New Zealand fashion designers generously donate original artwork, which is brought to life across the garments. Every purchase helps raise vital funds to advance new treatments and bring us closer to a cure.

Tees for a Cure garments are available to purchase online during the campaign period. Availability is limited, so we recommend purchasing early to secure your preferred design and size.

A pre-order campaign is ideal for charity fundraising because there’s no upfront stock, no waste, and very low risk. Only garments that are ordered are produced, it’s self-funding, lets supporters choose their preferences, and guarantees every item has a buyer, making it efficient and profitable, ensuring all revenue generated goes to support breast cancer projects in NZ.

Every tee, hoodie, crew and long sleeve tees sold contributes directly to funding innovative breast cancer research in New Zealand. These funds support scientists working on breakthroughs in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

A significant portion of every tee, hoodie, crew and long sleeve tees sale goes directly to BCC to fund research projects in New Zealand. Our goal is to maximise the impact of every purchase and ensure funds are directed toward life-saving outcomes. BCC is lucky to work with local New Zealand suppliers AS Colour and Platform Print who offer generous charity rates for both the garments and printing requirements.

Each year a curated group of New Zealand fashion designers generously donate artwork. This collaboration celebrates New Zealand talent while raising awareness and funds for breast cancer research.

The tees campaigns typically launch in April and then again on the 1st of October for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Sign up to our mailing list or follow us on Instagram or Facebook to be the first to know when the latest collection drops.

Yes, we offer shipping within New Zealand, Australia and internationally. Delivery times and costs vary depending on your location, full details are available at here. 

Absolutely! You can support breast cancer research in New Zealand by making a direct donation, fundraising, or volunteering your time. Every contribution helps drive progress toward a cure.

A BCC Patron is a committed supporter who makes an annual $1,000 contribution to advancing breast cancer research in New Zealand. Patrons play a vital role in funding breakthrough research and accelerating progress toward a cure.

Becoming a BCC Patron is simple. You can sign up at one of our events or online, here.

As a BCC Patron, your support directly funds pioneering breast cancer research projects in New Zealand. Your contribution helps drive advances in early detection, treatment, and ultimately finding a cure, making a meaningful difference for future generations.

BCC Patrons become part of a dedicated community committed to creating a lasting impact. You will receive regular updates on the difference your contribution is making, enjoy priority access to all our events, and take pride in knowing you are helping improve the lives of future generations.

Yes, donations of $5 or more are tax deductible in New Zealand. As a BCC Patron, you may be eligible to claim a tax credit of up to 33.33% of your donation.

Funds contributed by BCC Patrons support high-impact breast cancer research across New Zealand, including work in areas such as triple negative breast cancer, treatment resistance, and translating scientific discoveries into real-world outcomes.

Yes, businesses can become BCC Patrons and play an important role in supporting breast cancer research in New Zealand. Partnering as a Patron is a meaningful way to demonstrate corporate social responsibility while making a real impact.

If you’re interested in becoming a BCC Patron, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch [link] with our team to discuss how your support can help fund life-saving breast cancer research in New Zealand.