A lasting commitment to New Zealand health: Remembering Dr Doug Wilson MNZM

As a young medical researcher, Doug developed a strong interest in haematology and immunology, completing his PhD in London before returning to New Zealand to take up an academic role at Auckland Medical School. His career would go on to span medicine, research and the pharmaceutical industry, taking him and his wife Adele from New Zealand to London, Oxford, Melbourne, Saudi Arabia and the United States, before spending the last two decades of his life at home in Taupō.

But Doug’s contribution to medical research was not confined to his own career, and his connection with the Malaghan ran particularly deep. He played an important role in the early development of the Malaghan Institute, including introducing former chair Graham Malaghan to Dr Jim Watson, Professor Sir Graham Le Gros’ PhD supervisor at the University of Auckland. That connection helped pave the way for the independent research institute model that has become such an important part of the institute’s story.

Doug remained a supporter and friend of the institute throughout his life. He and his wife Adele generously hosted gatherings at their home in Taupō to build interest and support for Malaghan’s work in the region. He also continued to share his knowledge and connections, helping us explore opportunities to strengthen the institute and its research. 

For Doug, an interest in health was lifelong. He understood that protecting our health was fundamental to living well, and in his later years he became a passionate advocate for healthy ageing. His work as an author, public speaker and podcaster reflected his belief that ageing should be approached positively and proactively. In 2021, his contribution to the health and wellbeing of older New Zealanders was recognised when he was named Senior New Zealander of the Year. 

Doug died peacefully in Taupō in March 2025, aged 87. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy – not only through the people he mentored and inspired, the advances he helped bring to medicine, and the many New Zealanders he encouraged to think differently about ageing, but also through his enduring commitment to medical research.

Doug’s generous gift to the Malaghan Institute is a special part of that legacy. It will help our scientists continue their research into the immune system and the diseases that affect so many lives.

We are deeply grateful for Doug’s longstanding friendship, his belief in the importance of independent medical research, and his generosity to our future. We hope that, as the Malaghan continues to grow and make discoveries that improve health, Doug would be proud to see the role he played in helping make that possible.