This research study aims to develop a resource which can help patients whanau and clinicians share information to make informed decisions about fistulas, grafts or lines for haemodialysis.
We want to talk to adult patients (aged 18 years or older) who have had a fistula, graft or line for haemodialysis, and get their opinions on a draft resource that we have developed. Participants can talk to us face to face or over the internet and need to be comfortable speak and read in English. Patients can bring a whānau member or carer if they would like to. We can also organise a Māori or Pasifika support person to be present during the interview. We will try to interview people who have had different experiences to each other to get a range of perspectives.
Being part of this research will help us develop a resource that is useful to future patients when they need to learn about and make decisions about their fistulas grafts or chest lines. We will also offer a $50 grocery voucher in appreciation of your time.
The interview will take about half an hour.
Contact Details: Kate Richards, macka823@student.otago.ac.nz or call Christchurch Hospital Switch Board on 03 364 0640 and they will put you through.
This project has been reviewed and approved by the University of Otago Human Ethics Committee (Health) -Te Pae Matatika Tangata (Hauora), Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka. Reference: H 25/0389
Share Your Journey: A call to Kidney Failure and Kidney Transplant Recipients Inspire Others. Advance Research.
We’re inviting YOU to participate in a unique research project!
If you’ve received a kidney transplant or are on dialysis, are over 18 years old, can use a camera (smartphone or polaroid) your story matters. Help us understand the kidney failure and transplant experience through your photo-lens.
What We’re Looking For: PHOTOS
- Photos that capture your transplant journey - before, during, or after.
- Moments of strength, vulnerability, recovery, and resilience.
- Everyday life on dialysis or post-transplant: the big and small wins.
Why Participate?
- Empower others going through similar experiences.
- Contribute to research that aims to improve transplant care.
- Celebrate your journey and the community that supports you.
How to Join and What is Needed:
1. Email: Debbie.Wilson@aut.ac.nz
2. Consent to participate in our research study
3. Send your photos with a short description. Participate in a follow up confidential phone interview to discuss your photos. Then an optional focus group to hear about the study findings.
Your Privacy Matters:
All submissions are confidential and used only with YOUR permission. You can choose to remain anonymous.
Let your story be seen. Let your voice be heard. Together, we can make a difference. Questions? Contact us at: Debbie.Wilson@aut.ac.nz
Scan me for more information.
Approved by the Auckland University of Technology Ethics Committee on 27 June 2025. AUTEC Reference number 25/183
The IMPEDE-PKD study focus is:
Testing whether metformin, an existing medicine for diabetes, can prevent decreases in kidney function for people with Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD).
Do you or anyone you know have Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD)?
The IMPEDE-PKD Team are inviting people who have ADPKD, who are between 18 and 70 years old, and are not taking metformin (a medicine for diabetes) to consider a research study.
IMPEDE-PKD are studying whether metformin is helpful in protecting kidney function for people with ADPKD.
This research study will involve:
- taking medication (metformin or sugar pill) for 2 years and 3 months
- having regular health review including blood and urine tests
- filling out questionnaires about health and symptoms.
During the research study, you will meet a study nurse 4 times in-person and 9 time over the phone or video call (based on your preference). Each meeting will be 30 to 60 minutes long.
If you are, or someone you know, who would like to be part of this study, please contact Rachel:
impede-pkd.nz@otago.ac.nz or 03 244 1979 or 0221 351 300
Alternatively, please visit https://kidneytrials.com/impede-pkd/ to get involved.
