A new HPV screening research programme is due to be rolled out in Northland

Victoria University's been awarded a million dollars from the Health Research Council for the self-screening programme.

Evidence shows self-administered tests help reduce barriers that result in inequity for Maori women.

Researcher Bev Lawton says they will find out whether self-test make screening more accessible.

She says because it's more effective even if they do the same number of tests it will prevent 15 to 18 per cent more cancers.