Abstract
New Zealand has a serious and growing type 2 diabetes problem. It is predicted that within the next 20 years, the number of people with type 2 diabetes will increase by 70-90%. Of these people, Māori, Pacific and Asian will be worst affected. Allowing this to occur will have a hugely detrimental impact on the wellbeing of our people, but also on the sustainability of our health system and economy. There is an urgent need to recognise diabetes as a Government health priority and to invest in future prevention, treatment and care.