Coeliac disease is on the increase, but exclusion is still a very real experience for Kiwis living with the condition, according to Coeliac NZ.

Due to the serious nature of the autoimmune condition, managing coeliac disease is a significant undertaking with the necessity to avoid cross-contamination of gluten. coeliac disease needs to be managed at home, at work, when eating out and even at school too as 25% of coeliac cases are diagnosed in children.

“Unfortunately, catering for people with coeliac disease often falls into the ‘too hard basket’, leading to exclusion in social situations, workplaces, hospitality, and schools,” says Coeliac NZ general manager Wendy Bremner.

Coeliac disease is when gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, barley and oats, causes inflammation and gut damage. Left undiagnosed, coeliac disease can cause serious long-term health problems. A strict life-long gluten-free diet is the only treatment.

“Eating gluten, even in the most minute amount like a bread crumb, can have serious consequences for someone living with coeliac disease,” Mrs. Bremmer says.

Coeliac New Zealand are the voice for coeliac disease in NZ and is here to support those with coeliac disease and their whanau. When you become a member you receive advice throughout your coeliac journey. As part of the CNZ community, you’ll gain valuable advice and assistance when you need it. Your subscriptions also help provide the resources needed to work with health professionals, gluten-free manufacturers, and researchers to advocate and raise awareness of coeliac disease in NZ.

As a member, you’ll enjoy a wide range of benefits designed to support your gluten-free lifestyle:

• Welcome Pack – Get started with confidence! New members receive a comprehensive welcome pack filled with essential information about coeliac disease, tips for living gluten-free, where to shop, delicious recipes, and practical advice to make the transition as smooth as possible.
• Coeliac Link Magazine – Stay informed and inspired with our exclusive magazine, published twice a year. Enjoy expert insights, member stories, and contributions from ambassadors and medical professionals.
• Regular Member Updates – Be the first to know about important news, events, and community stories through ongoing communication and newsletters.
• Online Support – Tap into a wealth of resources via our website, YouTube channel, and active Facebook community – all designed to keep you informed and connected.
• Health & Wellbeing Resources – Access health promotion programmes, downloadable toolkits, and purchase additional  resources like our Wellbeing Journal and the kid-friendly "C is for Coeliac Disease" resource.

Your membership also supports Coeliac New Zealand in delivering community initiatives, including:

• Gluten-Free Food Safety Training – Support education for hospitality professionals through our training programme, ensuring safe gluten-free food handling.
• Dining Out Accreditation – Enjoy peace of mind when eating out at certified gluten-free venues through our accreditation programme.
• Product Certification & Advocacy – We work closely with food manufacturers to license the trusted Crossed Grain Logo, helping you shop with confidence.
• Industry Partnerships – We team up with leading brands to expand the availability of gluten-free products and share inspiring new recipes from food ambassadors.
• Coeliac Awareness Week – Help us raise awareness across New Zealand each year through this impactful national campaign.

Visit www.coeliac.org.nz for more information about coeliac disease and Coeliac NZ membership options.