Human Health Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance in New Zealand: The Current State and Future Direction

Human health antimicrobial resistance (AMR) surveillance in New Zealand has demonstrated substantial value in detecting, monitoring and responding to emerging threats. AMR is an escalating global problem and strengthening surveillance systems will be critical for ensuring New Zealand remains equipped to address this growing threat. This paper provides an overview of the current human health AMR surveillance system in New Zealand, describing its structure, data sources and key components. Using selected case studies, we demonstrate the value of integrated laboratory, epidemiological and genomic data in detecting emerging threats, monitoring trends and informing public health and clinical responses. We also highlight work underway to strengthen AMR surveillance in New Zealand including improvements to data standardisation, laboratory information systems and national coordination, alongside increasing engagement with international surveillance initiatives. Finally, we highlight the need to progress toward a more integrated AMR surveillance approach that incorporates human, animal and environmental surveillance to better respond to AMR.