Aotearoa New Zealand’s national advisory body on Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) and associated conditions
For more than 45 years, ANZMES has been the trusted national source of evidence‑based information, representation, and leadership for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), also known as chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). We now also provide national guidance for Long COVID with ME‑like features and related long‑term conditions in Aotearoa New Zealand.
We are not a regional support group — we work at the national and international level to inform, represent, educate, and advance research for people with ME and associated conditions.
We are a not-for-profit registered charity, lead by an incorporated Trust Board.
What We Do
Research
We fund, support, promote, and conduct biomedical and scientific research in Aotearoa, ensuring New Zealand contributes to global scientific progress.
We work with researchers, clinicians, and international partners to strengthen the evidence base for ME and ME‑like conditions. Our research work includes collaboration, evidence review, guideline alignment, and translation of research into safe, accessible education.
Learn more: Research
Represent
We work nationally to strengthen healthcare pathways, disability recognition, policy development, government action, and public understanding — and represent New Zealand on the global stage.
We advocate for people with ME and associated conditions by engaging with government, health agencies, clinicians, and national sector partners. Our representation work includes submissions, media statements, sector coordination, and contributions to national standards and guidelines.
Learn more: Representation
Educate
We provide accredited continuing medical education for health professionals across primary, secondary, and allied health. We deliver industry‑specific workshops on early recognition, prevention, intervention, and safe management. We also develop evidence‑informed resources for schools, workplaces, and the public.
Visit our: CME opportunities and clinical resources
Inform
We provide clear, accessible, evidence‑based information about ME, Long COVID with ME‑like features, and associated conditions — supporting accurate diagnosis, safe management, and improved quality of life for people living with these long‑term conditions and their families, whānau and carers.
Whether you are newly diagnosed, supporting someone with ME/CFS, or navigating WINZ, employment, or daily life — we can help you find the right information.
Learn more: Patients
Find Your Local Support Organisation
We work nationally and represent New Zealand on the global stage — your regional organisation provides community support and local connection.
Search for your local group here: Find Support
What is Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME)?
ME is a serious, complex neurological disease affecting thousands of New Zealanders.
It causes profound exhaustion, post‑exertional malaise (a worsening of symptoms after activity), cognitive impairments (“brain fog”), unrefreshing sleep, immune dysregulation (the immune system becomes confused and may over‑ or under‑react), and autonomic dysfunction (problems regulating heart rate, blood pressure, and temperature).
ME rarely occurs on its own — many people also live with other long‑term conditions, which can make diagnosis and management more challenging. We provide the tools to help you understand and navigate this.
Since the COVID‑19 pandemic, many more people are experiencing long‑term post‑viral illness. For those with Long COVID with ME‑like features, management is very similar to ME — and we can help.
People living with these long term conditions need clear, reliable information at every stage of their illness. That’s what we provide.
Start Here: Understanding ME
What is Long COVID?
Long COVID is a post‑viral condition where symptoms continue or return after a COVID‑19 infection. Many people experience ME‑like features, including post‑exertional malaise (PEM), cognitive issues, pain, and autonomic symptoms. It overlaps closely with ME and other multi‑system energy-limiting conditions.
Learn more about Long COVID
What is the Septad?
The “Septad” refers to a cluster of seven overlapping conditions often seen alongside ME and Long COVID — including dysautonomia, MCAS, hEDS, GI issues, autoimmune conditions, chronic viral reactivation, and neurologic structural issues. These conditions share autonomic, immune, and connective‑tissue features. Emerging research and clinical patterns are also associating other conditions with ME.
Learn about associated conditions
Get Involved – Take Part
Your involvement helps strengthen national advocacy, support research, and improve understanding of ME and associated conditions across Aotearoa.
There are many ways to take part in ANZMES — as a supporter, business sponsor, ambassador, patron, volunteer, or donor.
Become a Supporter: Take Part