A major study of middle-aged Cantabrians' health is entering a new phase

Otago University's Canterbury Health and Life Course Study began in 2010 with 400 50-year-olds contributing health records, lifestyle data, and biological samples.

Researchers can now use genome sequencing, and track heart and cardiovascular risks thanks to new technology.

Study Director Associate Professor John Pearson says the aim is the same - find ways we can age well.

He says we want to be well and productive for longer - and they want to flip the narrative that an ageing population means more healthcare and costs.