In New Zealand, trauma alone is estimated to cost the country more than $43 million per year in hospital bills.

In the Midland health region, which covers the Waikato and the Bay of Plenty, more than 5,000 people are hospitalised every year as a result of injury, with around 300 sustaining severe or life-threatening injuries.

The new Midland Trauma Research Centre has been launched at Waikato Hospital recently. From left: nurse consultant Alaina Campbell, trauma specialist Dr Grant Christey, and the centre's patron Rob Waddell. Photo: Waikato DHB

It is these haunting realities that have led to the creation of the first Midland Trauma Research Centre, which is based at Waikato Hospital.

The centre looks to find ways to not only prevent trauma but reduce the burden of it on patients, families and the wider community.

This research will be led by trauma specialist Dr Grant Christey who says the centre would bring together clinicians, academics and community representatives to help find solutions.

'Trauma has a profound effect on our community, however, much of it is preventable with targeted interventions and changes in thinking and attitude,” explains Dr Christey.

Current research shows trauma is the greatest cause of death in New Zealanders aged between five and 50. It is also responsible for the greatest number of lives lost where there were no prior indicators of death.

The collaborative research will come from the valuable information collected through the Midland Trauma Registry, and Dr Christey says it will be practical, efficient and regionally focused.

'With the help of community support we will be able to fulfil our promise by employing specialised staff for advanced research that will reduce the burden of trauma on our communities.”

Waikato DHB chief executive Dr Nigel Murray says the research is being backed by sports legend Rob Waddell, who is the patron of the centre.

'Having Rob's support for this incredible work also helps us reach out into our communities,” he says.

The research centre is now seeking partnerships within the community to help fund the research and promotion required. Reducing the amount of injury even by one per cent would equal enough funding for the next five years of research.