A confirmed case of measles has been reported in Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland). The person had recently returned from Asia on 29 April and became infectious on 2 May.

Te Tiratū Iwi Māori Partnership Board in the last 24 hours has received a further briefing from Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand about the outbreak. You can check for update on locations of interest HERE.

Tainui Waka Rohe: Tamariki Immunisation Rates Are Low

In our rohe, only 62% of tamariki under 2 years old are immunised against measles — well below the national target of 95%. This makes our communities vulnerable to outbreaks and puts pēpi, kaumātua, and immune-compromised whānau at serious risk.

Protecting Our Whakapapa: Immunise Against Measles

Measles is a serious, fast-spreading illness that can affect both tamariki and pakeke.

Why Immunisation Matters

  • Measles spreads quickly and can be dangerous — especially for Tamariki under five.
  • Adults can catch measles too, and risk passing it to mokopuna who are too young to be vaccinated.
  • The MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine is safe, effective, and has been used in Aotearoa since 1990.
  • Two doses after the age of 12 months protect 99% of people from measles.

What You Can Do – Right Now

  • Check if your tamariki or rangatahi have had 2 doses of the MMR vaccine.
  • If you’re unsure whether you’re protected, especially if born after 1 January 1969 — get vaccinated.
  • Encourage kōrero within your whānau and hapū about immunisation – sharing trusted info saves lives.

Free. Safe. Effective.

The MMR vaccine is free for all under 18s, and for adults eligible for funded healthcare.
It has an excellent safety record and does not contain any pork (porcine) products.

He Pēpi? He Māmā Hapu?

Pregnant wāhine can’t receive the MMR vaccine — so it’s important to make sure everyone around them is protected.
Measles during pregnancy can cause miscarriage and premature birth.

Who Can Get Vaccinated – and When?

Tamariki:

  • 1st dose at 12 months
  • 2nd dose at 15 months
  • Missed a dose? Catch-up vaccinations are FREE

Pakeke (Adults):

  • If you’re not sure you’re protected and were born after 1 Jan 1969, get vaccinated – it’s safe to have extra doses.
  • If you’re pregnant, you cannot get the MMR vaccine — but it’s safe to get it after baby is born and while breastfeeding.

Overseas-born whānau:

  • Had your vaccinations overseas? Check your records with a doctor.
  • No records? Still get vaccinated — it’s safe.
  • Some countries vaccinate babies before 12 months – they may need extra doses here in Aotearoa.

 It doesn’t matter what your immigration status is — the MMR vaccine is FREE for all under 18

  • Over 18? The vaccine is still free if you’re eligible for funded healthcare.

He Pātai?

Tō tātou haumarutanga kei a tātou — Our collective protection starts with each of us.

Read what you need to know for protecting your tamariki against measles