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The ageing of the population globally and in New Zealand (NZ) was the main driver for this study. In Aoteoroa, New Zealand, little is known about Maori and non-Maori of advanced age, yet population projections predict a trebling of the number of Maori and a doubling of non-Maori octogenarians in the next 10 years. 1 The impact of common health conditions may differ for older people when compared with their younger counterparts. The importance of social support and practical assistance may vary according to the psychological and functional ability of those in advanced age. The incidence and predictors of falls and fractures in advanced age are unknown, as is the relationship between traditional and novel cardiovascular risk factors and cardiovascular outcomes. The relationship between dietary intake, nutritional status and functional decline in advanced age may point the way to food strategies for better …