From early gears New Zealand has had a well developed system of social and medical support for elderly people. More recently, a broadly based network of research workers has developed and there has been an increased representation of those involved in gerontological research in academic institutions. The small size of New Zealand has meant that the number of research workers is small but this is compensated for by increased collaboration and strong links with the community and community groups and to those developing health policy. These strengths, coupled with a commitment to funding gerontological studies should ensure continued high quality research.