About us
NZCR is New Zealand’s leading clinical trials and medical research organisation.
With a focus on groundbreaking research and a commitment to participant safety, we have established ourselves as a trusted partner in the development of new medicines and medical treatments.
We are the leading early-phase clinical research provider in NZ. Following continued growth, we have acquired Optimal Clinical Trials to add considerable later-phase expertise to the NZCR Group.
As a physician-led organisation, we bring together over 35 years of research excellence and a track record of completing over 800 trials involving over 17,000 participants. We work closely with our sister company Optimal Clinical Trials to offer research across the entire lifecycle of a clinical trial.
With dosing units located in Auckland and Christchurch, plus two recruitment and outpatient sites located in Hamilton and Wellington we partner with global pharmaceutical, contract research organisations, and biotechnology companies to conduct complex clinical research in healthy participant and patient populations.
Expertise & Experience
Research Leadership:
Our organisation is recognised as the leader in clinical research in New Zealand, providing valuable contributions to the global medical community by testing new treatments and medications. Combined, the extended research team has thousands of referred publications recognising their significant contributions as principal investigators.
Extensive Trial Experience:
We have conducted over 800 clinical trials, involving more than 17,000 healthy participants and patients across New Zealand. This vast experience underscores our capability and reliability in managing complex clinical studies.
Facilities & Locations
Purpose Built Facilities:
Our advanced research facilities in the major New Zealand cities, Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington and Christchurch are equipped with the latest technology and resources to conduct a wide range of clinical trials. These facilities include positive pressure clean rooms, monitored fridges and ultra-low temperature –80°C freezer storage, temperature-controlled storerooms, centrifuges, fume hoods, onsite PBMC processing, and more. All facilities are located within easy reach of major hospitals.
Geographical Reach:
By having multiple locations across the country, we are accessible to broad age, demographic, ethnic, and patient populations. This makes it easier for participants to take part in trials without significant travel and for NZCR to fulfil even the most challenging recruitment criteria.
Ethical Standards & Safety
Ethical Research Practices:
Every clinical trial conducted by NZCR adheres to strict scientific and ethical standards, ensuring that all studies are conducted with the highest level of integrity.
Regulatory Compliance:
All our trials are approved by New Zealand’s regulatory authorities, the New Zealand Medicines and Medical Devices Safety Authority (Medsafe) and the Health and Disability Ethics Committee (HDEC), to ensure all procedures comply with national and international guidelines for clinical research.
Participant Safety:
Our team places a strong emphasis on participant safety, with thorough screening and monitoring processes in place to protect those who take part in studies. Post-dosing follow-ups ensure continued participant well-being and observation.
Research Focus & Contributions
New Medicines and Treatments:
NZCR focuses on the development and testing of new medicines, contributing to advancements in healthcare both in New Zealand and internationally. We are internationally recognised as leaders in gene therapy, hepatology, nephrology, respiratory, psychoactive, vaccines and many other innovative medical treatments.
Collaborative Efforts:
We collaborate with pharmaceutical companies, healthcare providers, and other research institutions to bring cutting-edge treatments to the market. Our physicians are also teaching professors and directors of their specialty at New Zealand’s leading hospitals and universities.
Participant Engagement & Support
Comprehensive Support:
We provide extensive support to trial participants, including health check-ups, privacy pods for online work or study, and a variety of amenities and entertainment options. All meals are provided.
Engagement and Community:
Participants are encouraged to become part of the research community, with opportunities to engage in social and recreational activities during their stay.
Participant Recruitment & Screening
Pre-Screening and Screening:
We use thorough pre-screening and screening processes to ensure participants meet the required eligibility criteria for trials. This process includes reviewing medical history, conducting physical exams, and running diagnostic tests. Specialist testing is available onsite and with our extensive partner network.
Database and Matching:
Once registered, participants are matched with suitable trials based on their health profile and the specific requirements of the trial.
Informed Consent:
Before taking part, participants are thoroughly informed of all aspects of the trial and their obligations. This shared understanding drives commitment with the highest participant retention rates throughout the trial period.
Impact on Global Healthcare
Contributions to Global Research:
Through our clinical trials, we contribute valuable data and insights that help bring new medications to market, improving patient care and treatment outcomes worldwide.
Supporting Innovation:
By testing new treatments, we play a crucial role in advancing global health and the discovery of life-changing therapies.
New Zealand Clinical Research is an internationally regarded and highly experienced organisation committed to ethical research practices, participant safety, and the development of new treatments. We play a pivotal role in advancing medical research internationally and are a trusted partner in the global healthcare community.