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

New research sheds light on foodborne bacteria and how it causes illness

New research sheds light on foodborne bacteria and how it causes illness

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Testing the waters: a rapid, low-cost tool to keep kaimoana safe

Testing the waters: a rapid, low-cost tool to keep kaimoana safe

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Reducing harm from drugs through Aotearoa’s early warning system

Reducing harm from drugs through Aotearoa’s early warning system

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STI rates continue to decline across New Zealand

STI rates continue to decline across New Zealand

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UP NEXT / Testing the waters: a rapid, low-cost tool to keep kaimoana safe Reducing harm from drugs through Aotearoa’s early warning system STI rates continue to decline across New Zealand Under the Weather Report New research sheds light on foodborne bacteria and how it causes illness
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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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Corporate Publication
2026 Annual Report
01 October 2026
News
PHF Science begins search for next Chief Executive
04 September 2026
News
Invasive pneumococcal disease rates remain elevated despite stable overall numbers in 2025
30 July 2026
News
Viral hepatitis: the silent threat to our liver
28 July 2026
News
Building the future of battlefield forensics through international collaboration
27 July 2026
Corporate Publication
PHF Science Statement of Corporate Intent 2026–2031
09 July 2026
Case Study
Sharp-eyed surveillance helps cut a serious childhood illness in half
03 July 2026

Our mahi for the benefit of Aotearoa

8

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.

19

Research projects

To support the food industry and New Zealand food safety