In particular it was noted that doctors in Hawke's Bay who had undertaken specialist training overseas found on coming home a partial vacuum because of the lack of research facilities available locally. It was agreed that there was a need for facilities to be made available, and the first meeting to establish the Hawke's Bay Medical Research Foundation was held on 16 March 1961. The Foundation was registered shortly thereafter under the Incorporated Societies Act 1908.

The objects of the Foundation are to promote, initiate and support research in all health-related fields including medical and health education, knowledge and understanding.

A governing body was set up comprising representatives of the Hospital Board, the medical profession, local authorities and Members of Parliament. Anyone could become a life member on payment of 100 pounds, or a subscribing member on paying 1 pound annually. These rates converted to $200 and $2 by introduction of decimal currency, but from 1 April 1994 became $150 and $10. Now Life Membership is $200. Donations over $5 and gifts and bequests are eligible, within limits, for tax exemption and rebates.

Corporate Sponsership's are available for a term of five years at three donation levels being;

Corporate Members may also provide a one-off donation at anytime.

A framed Certificate will be presented in appreciation of the grant or donation.  

* Gold  $10,000

* Silver   $5,000

* Bronze $2,000

The Foundation received the wholehearted support of the Local Authorities, service organisations and people of Hawke's Bay, and soon became active in research. Over the past few years the funds not used for research have been built up by donations, bequests, wise investments and recognition as a charitable organisation for taxation purposes. Funds have been made available for research into many areas and these include arthritis, cancer, cot deaths, leukaemia, heart disease, mental health and community health.