Christchurch is being recognised as a global leader in diabetes technology, with locally led research helping to improve the quality and length of life for people living with the condition.

The rapid development of automated insulin delivery systems and other emerging technologies was the focus of the 2026 Athol Mann Memorial Lecture, hosted by the Canterbury Medical Research Foundation on Wednesday night.

Internationally renowned paediatric endocrinologist Professor Martin de Bock, from the University of Otago, Christchurch, presented the lecture, titled The Rise of the Machines – Saving Lives in the World of Diabetes.

Professor de Bock said Christchurch researchers were leading major advances in diabetes technology and helping turn new innovations into practical treatments for patients.

“Christchurch’s role as a global leader in diabetes technology research and implementation demonstrates how local collaboration and innovation have delivered meaningful improvements for people with diabetes both in New Zealand and internationally,” he said.

Automated insulin delivery systems use devices such as glucose monitors and insulin pumps to continually assess blood-glucose levels and automatically adjust the amount of insulin delivered.

Professor de Bock said the technology was significantly improving diabetes management, but greater work was needed to ensure the benefits were available to everyone.

He highlighted individual, community and healthcare system barriers which needed to be addressed to achieve equitable health outcomes.

Canterbury Medical Research Foundation Interim Foundation Director Sue Sullivan said the lecture provided an opportunity for the public to hear directly from one of New Zealand’s leading diabetes researchers.

“Professor de Bock’s work is changing lives, and we’re proud to bring research of this calibre to our community through the Athol Mann Memorial Lecture,” she said.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate Canterbury’s world-leading health research and its real impact on people’s lives.”

Professor de Bock is one of New Zealand’s leading experts in paediatric diabetes and endocrinology and has authored more than 130 peer-reviewed publications.

His research has appeared in the New England Journal of Medicine, and he has helped develop international diabetes management guidelines and consensus statements.

In 2025, Professor de Bock received the Health Research Council’s Beaven Medal for Health Translation, recognising his contribution to improving the lives of people with diabetes in New Zealand.

The Canterbury Medical Research Foundation invests more than $1.5 million each year in Canterbury-led health and medical research, supporting more than 30 researchers and projects across a range of health disciplines.

The foundation has supported Canterbury research and innovation for 66 years.