The New Zealand Institute for Public Health and Forensic Science (PHF Science) was formerly named The Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR).

Food Safety Week: PHF Science keeping New Zealand safe

Food Safety Week: PHF Science keeping New Zealand safe

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100 years and counting: science working for New Zealand

100 years and counting: science working for New Zealand

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A new, safe tool to study water contamination

A new, safe tool to study water contamination

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Back to the future: discovery of a new bacterial species, decades in the making

Back to the future: discovery of a new bacterial species, decades in the making

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UP NEXT / 100 years and counting: science working for New Zealand A new, safe tool to study water contamination Back to the future: discovery of a new bacterial species, decades in the making Food Safety Week: PHF Science keeping New Zealand safe
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PHF Science is a New Zealand Government-owned research organisation dedicated to the health, wellbeing and safety of our communities. Specialising in public health and forensic sciences, we monitor disease, help ensure safe food and water, reduce harm from drugs, support the justice system and more. Our science powers innovations and solutions to help New Zealand prosper and grow.

Infectious disease Water & environment Food & product safety Forensic science Genomics Climate change, health & wellbeing Radiation science Data science & AI Reducing drug harm

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News
PHF Science experts celebrated at 2026 Science New Zealand Awards
26 May 2026
News
Celebrating 100 years of science impact
22 May 2026
Case Study
Covid-19 vaccines shown to reduce virus transmission for entire households
01 May 2026
News
First major reveal approaching at Kenepuru Science Centre
29 April 2026
News
Vape labelling still contained inaccuracies post law change, PHF Science report finds
23 March 2026
News
Rheumatic fever rates return to pre-pandemic levels, with ongoing inequities in New Zealand
27 February 2026
News
New book showcases infectious diseases research
25 February 2026

Our mahi for the benefit of Aotearoa

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Live dashboards

To help the public track potential risks in their local areas, see latest testing numbers and keep on top of outbreaks.

400+

PHF Science experts

The largest group of forensic, social, radiation, environmental and infectious disease scientists in New Zealand.

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Research projects

To support the food industry and New Zealand food safety