What we do - our services

We offer a range of practical, emotional, spiritual, and social support services to people with a life limiting illness in Wairarapa. We also support their whānau and carers.

Our services are free and available to anyone with a life limiting illness in Wairarapa, you do not need a referral. We offer support from when someone is diagnosed to bereavement support for grieving whānau.

We will talk with you about our services and how we can best help you. A support plan will then be developed to help optimise your quality of life based on the chosen supportive care services.

If you, a whānau member, a friend or someone in your care would like our support, please contact us. Alternatively, you are welcome to fill in an online referral form for our services for yourself, a whānau member, a friend or someone you are caring for. If you are self refering, we would request permission to confirm diagnosis with your GP or specialist.

If you want to know more or have any questions, please call or make an enquiry. We are happy to help you.

Our support services

  • Social support

    Our qualified social worker can provide social support for our clients and their whānau, tailored to specific needs. This includes listening, advocating, advanced care planning, and assistance in navigating various care support resources.

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  • Wairuatanga (spiritual care)

    Spiritual care acknowledges and responds to the needs of the Taha Wairua, or spirit, during times of sadness, illness, loss and death. Regardless of belief system, we can offer support to you and your whānau for holistic wellbeing.

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  • In-home support

    Our care companion programme supports clients, whānau and carers in their homes. Trained hospice volunteers offer care and companionship, and practical help around the house as needed.

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  • Carer support

    Specific programmes and support groups are offered to whānau and those providing care to a loved one with a life-limiting illness. These provide practical information and advice on various aspects of caregiving like grief, financial planning, end-of-life preparation and self-care.

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  • Counselling, therapy & grief support

    We offer professional counselling and grief support programmes to individuals, whānau groups and tamariki. This includes individual and small-group creative arts therapy with a registered art therapist. Counselling and creative therapy can help with coping strategies to manage challenges, stress, and grieving.

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  • Workshops & Groups

    We offer a range of programmes, support groups and workshops for companionship, community connection, advice and support for our clients, carers and whānau.

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  • Other services

    Biography writing and recording life stories or special memories are offered by our trained volunteers. There may be other services and resources we can provide. Please ask if there are other ways we can support you and your whānau.

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  • Resources, research & further information

    A range of resources is available for anyone using our hospice services, health professionals or those interested in understanding more about end of life and palliative care. Te Kowhāi also has a variety of books, audiobooks and resources available to loan, free of charge.

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