Community and social networks
Many people living with long-term conditions have had positive experience and value being part of a group of people with similar health conditions and/or interests. The health and wellness gains of many of the participants have been significant.
Here you can find out about some of these initiatives in New Zealand. We know that there are many more. If you know of a group or programme in your area, please let us know by contacting hello@hnct.org.nz.
Le Va
Our purpose is to support Pasifika families and communities to unleash their full potential and have the best possible health and wellbeing outcomes.
A presentation can be viewed here.
Tane Takitu Ake
Tāne Takitu Ake takes participating men on a journey that is supported by the Pae Whiriwhiri, their peers in the programme and those who have previously engaged with the programme
Through the combination of wānanga, physical activity, peer support and holistic support, Tane Takitu Ake encourages tāne and their whānau to improve all 4 aspects of their health – whānau (family health), tinana (physical health), hinengaro (mental health) and wairua (spiritual health) – so they may realise and optimise their role in their whānau and their community.
A presentation can be viewed here.
Diabetes Be Active Programme
Sport Canterbury, in partnership with primary care and Green Prescription, runs a gym-based programme for people with type 2 diabetes. More information about the programme can be found in this presentation.
More information about Sport Canterbury can be found on its website.
Brown Buttabean Motivation
New Zealand group BBM Motivation was started to help Māori and Pasifika people live healthier lives and set an example for their family/whānau and friends. More information can be found on their Facebook page.
Well Connected NZ
The focus of this project is on how people with long term conditions can develop and maintain meaningful social connection with others in their community which in turn has enabled improved health outcomes. More information can be found on their website.
Hora Te Pai exercise and wellness programme
Robyn is a community health worker at Hora Te Pai Health Services, based at Paraparaumu on the Kapiti Coast, north of Wellington. She describes the Hora Te Pai Exercise and Wellness Programme, which has become a popular programme for the local community. Read more.
Ta Taipakeke
A gym-based community support programme in the Rotorua area. Read about it here.