Epilepsy New Zealand

29/10/2026

ABCs of Epilepsy

Puberty not only changes the physical appearance of a teenager, but there is also a change in the chemicals within the brain as the levels of reproductive hormones increase. There are several Age-Specific Epilepsy Syndromes that may appear around this time.
Please note that the information shared in this series is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We always recommend consulting your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding your or your loved one's symptoms or condition.

29/10/2026

Today our Thursday Thank you goes to the We Care Community Trust.

With gaming venues across the North Island, this trust is supporting the work we do in the greater Bay of Plenty region, from Taupo to Tauranga to Ōpōtiki.

This funding goes to supporting Marjo and Christine in helping their community.

Thank you.

27/10/2026

The ABCs of Epilepsy

The time, age, or specific life stage when the first recurring seizures or symptoms begin is often called the onset of your epilepsy, but the term Onset may also be used to describe the starting point of where the seizure starts.
Please note that the information shared in this series is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We always recommend consulting your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding your or your loved one's symptoms or condition.
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26/10/2026

November is "Talk About It" Month- we want to hear from you

By sharing your experiences, you can help others grasp the realities of living with epilepsy and demonstrate that no one has to navigate this journey alone. Let’s Talk About It! aims to raise awareness, foster understanding, and encourage inclusion throughout Aotearoa New Zealand.
Your insights could provide comfort and guidance to someone who might be feeling isolated or overwhelmed, or perhaps you feel the need to have your story heard, so others may be able to advise you. By contributing your voice, you not only empower yourself but also help build a supportive community that embraces diversity and resilience. Each story is a step toward breaking down stigma and educating others about the complexities and courage involved in living with epilepsy.
If you’re interested in sharing your story (which will remain anonymous), please follow the link below.
https://epilepsy.org.nz/you-can-help/please-support-our-current-appeal/lets-talk-about-it/

Epilepsy New Zealand proudly celebrates Let’s Talk About It! each November. Talk About It! encourages people across Aotearoa New Zealand to start open conversations about epilepsy…

25/10/2026

The ABCs of Epilepsy

So what is happening when you are having a seizure? Why are the Neurons part of this? Some neurons suddenly become overly sensitive. Instead of firing a single electrical message and resting, they launch into a rapid, continuous sequence of repetitive firings without a break. This intensifies a small electrical glitch into a massive wave that spreads across local networks (focal) or the entire brain (generalised).
Please note that the information shared in this series is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We always recommend consulting your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding your or your loved one's symptoms or condition.

23/10/2026

Karori Lions Club -World Festival Of Magic Show 2026
Lower Hutt Events Centre
Get Ready to Be Amazed! Karori Lions Club World Festival of Magic brings together an exciting mix of world-class magic and entertainment for a spectacular 90-minute show designed to delight children, families and the young at heart.
Best of all, it’s ABSOLUTELY FREE!
Thanks to the generosity of the Karori Host Lions Club and local businesses, less fortunate children and their families can enjoy this magical experience together.
Go to the link to apply for your tickets, if you are in the area.

Get ready for mind-blowing magic tricks and amazing illusions at the Lions Club World Festival of Magic 2026!

22/10/2026

Let's Talk About It
By sharing your experiences, you can help others grasp the realities of living with epilepsy and demonstrate that no one has to navigate this journey alone. Let’s Talk About It! aims to raise awareness, foster understanding, and encourage inclusion throughout Aotearoa New Zealand.
If you’re interested in sharing your story (which will remain anonymous), please follow the link below.
https://epilepsy.org.nz/you-can-help/please-support-our-current-appeal/lets-talk-about-it/

Epilepsy New Zealand proudly celebrates Let’s Talk About It! each November. Talk About It! encourages people across Aotearoa New Zealand to start open conversations about epilepsy…

22/10/2026

Today our Thursday Thank you goes to two philanthropic funders.

Firstly to the Thomas Richard Moore Trust, managed by Public Trust. This Trust has two provisions, one supporting early childhood centre's and support groups in Palmerston North and Napier and a contestable fund, which ENZ is grateful to receive support from.

Secondly to the Brett Stevens Trust, managed by Perpetual Guardian. ENZ is one of the four organisations that receive funding from this Trust alongside, Brain Injury Association NZ, The Cancer Society of NZ and The Neurological Foundation of NZ.

Thanks to philanthropic funds like this generosity can extend well beyond the lifespan of those who want to give back to their community.

21/10/2026

Leaders Agree to Cross-party Talks on Medicines

During the NZ Herald Leaders’ Debate, Labour leader Chris Hipkins and National leader Christopher Luxon both committed to sitting down within the first 100 days after the election to establish a stable, long-term approach to several major national issues. When the host suggested adding medicines to the cross-party discussion agenda, both leaders agreed and sealed the commitment with a handshake.
Follow the link to see all the parties' actions to the questions below:
-Will your party commit to funding the medicines Pharmac has recommended through its Options for Investment list?
-Will your party commit to a long-term plan to bring New Zealand’s medicines investment into line with OECD norms?
-What other policies would your party implement to improve medicines access?

https://www.forbiddenpharmacy.org/party-responses

During the NZ Herald Leaders’ Debate hosted by Ryan Bridge on 14 October, Labour leader Chris Hipkins and National leader Christopher Luxon both committed to sitting down within the first 100 days after the election to establish a stable, long-term approach to several major national issues. When t...

20/10/2026

SUDEP ACTION DAY 2026
Raising awareness of SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy).
Honouring those beautiful lives lost to SUDEP, today and every day. While they may no longer be with us, their spirit lives on. Raise Awareness to help lower the risk of SUDEP.