Essential Services
Women’s Refuge
If you feel afraid or unsafe at home, Women’s Refuge is here to support you. They help women and children experiencing family violence, no matter where you are from or what your visa or immigration status is. Their services are free and confidential.
Women’s Refuge can give you:
- A safe place to stay
- Someone to listen and offer advice
- Help in your own language
- Support with finding housing, legal advice, or other services
They understand that asking for help can feel scary, but you are not alone. Women’s Refuge staff are kind, respectful, and here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Call 0800 733 843 (0800 REFUGE) any time.
Neighbourhood Support Eastern Southland
Neighbourhood Support connects you with those around you to help make your street safer and friendlier. By joining, you can receive updates about local events, safety tips, and emergency information. You’ll also get to know your neighbours, which is especially helpful if you’re new to the area.
It’s free to join and you can be as involved as you want, from simply staying in touch to helping organise street barbecues or local projects.
To join, talk to your local Neighbourhood Support Coordinator or phone 03 208 8480.
Click here to learn more about Neighbourhood Support - Connected Eastern Southland
Te Whatu Ora - Health NZ
Helping you stay healthy and informed in Aotearoa New Zealand:
- Find doctors, health services, and public health information
- Learn about free immunisations to protect your whānau from diseases like measles and COVID-19
- Stay updated on important health warnings and safety tips
- Check your eligibility for free or low-cost healthcare
- Access resources for health workers, including job info and scholarships
Visit their website for simple, trusted information to support your wellbeing.
Mental Health Foundation
The Mental Health Foundation supportsyour mental health and wellbeing by:
- Find immediate help and helplines for yourself or others in need
- Access resources on suicide prevention, grief support, and mental health conditions
- Learn practical ways to improve wellbeing, including Five Ways to Wellbeing and Te Whare Tapa Whā
- Connect with free local support groups across Aotearoa
- Explore resources tailored for whānau, workplaces, young people, and specific communities
- Get involved through fundraising, volunteering, or workplace wellbeing programmes
