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NZ AYA Cancer Action Plan 2020-2025

Mahere tautapa mate pukupuku taiohi
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Regional AYA Cancer Services - Contact Details

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For a list of AYA Cancer Network Printable Resources

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Announcing the AYA Cancer Network Aotearoa's New Clinical Lead

Dedicated to ensuring all young
New Zealanders diagnosed with cancer will have equitable access to high quality
medical and supportive care regardless of where they live, their age or ethnicity.

  • Find Help in your Region

Adolescent/Young Adult (AYA) Cancer services are specialised treatment and support services for young people with cancer aged 12-24 years.

Health and other professionals working within these services have considerable experience in treating and caring for young people.

Click on the map to find the service closest to you

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Heidi Watson

The Clinical Leader is responsible for providing clinical leadership and national oversight of the network .

Heidi is a passionate and experienced health professional with a strong clinical, education and leadership background. Her enthusiasm for, and commitment to youth health has focused on improving the outcomes of youth with cancer and chronic health conditions. Previously, Heidi held the position of AYA Cancer Nurse Specialist for Auckland District Health Board. Alongside her AYA clinical leadership role she holds a youth health academic position at the University of Auckland.

Cristal Salatas

Cristal 2025

Cristal Salatas is the Research & Data Lead for the AYA Cancer Network. She is also a PhD candidate at the University of Auckland, specialising in Perinatal Sciences. Her research utilises Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to analyse the spatial, nutritional, environmental, and socioeconomic determinants of preterm birth risk across New Zealand. Cristal’s research bridges spatial epidemiology, GeoAI-driven risk modelling, and public health policy, ensuring that geospatial insights translate into actionable healthcare solutions.

Cristal has also conducted cancer research at her alma mater (University of Florida), where she developed a successful killing assay for glioblastoma multiforme. Now, she will build on that foundation by leading research and data efforts to support adolescents and young adults facing cancer across Aotearoa.