WE HAVE MOVED: to contact us please email community@odwr.nz or phone 03-466 3220

Although we are not able to meet in our new space yet (due to building work) I want to reach out to update you all:

As we embark on this new phase, I'm reminded of the whakatauki: "Ēhara tāku toa i te toa takatahi, engari he toa takitini." Our strength stems not from individual prowess, but from the collective efforts of many. Indeed, it has taken a village to breathe life into our vision!!!!

Moving premises is never easy, but amidst the challenges, the team and my motivation remains unwavering: we have listened to our community, our whānau voices as we have taken this step to develop a therapeutic hub of safety, hope and healing for those in our community experiencing current or historic intimate partner violence (IPV) for our tamariki – children, rangatahi – adolescents, our wāhine, and our community.

We have embarked on this remarkable journey—a journey of moving and yes, all the ‘normal’ whirlwind challenges this brings, the boxes, shelving, you name it is everywhere, but it will slowly evolve into a fabulous space! lol!!!! A time filled with smiles, some giggles, some of frustration (or possibly a lot!) but above all with aroha and an openness for moving forward.

This new space is a testament to continued commitment to creating a therapeutic environment of safety and healing, we are laying the foundation for a space that nurtures leanings, wellbeing in mind, body and wairau - spirit.

One of the most exciting aspects of our new location is the development of our therapeutic garden space. We have begun, albeit slowly by planting two kowhai trees—a symbol of the of the refuge movement. These trees stand as a tribute to the aroha and strength of the wāhine who have paved the way for us as we now move forward.

Reflecting on the past 3.5 years of my role I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to lead this transformative journey. It's been a path of change, with invaluable lessons, always moving forward in a space of positive growth.

I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all of the team who continue to embrace our vision, our practicably perfect governance board of trustees 😊, and our fabulous community who continue to support us, through donations, or the wonderful GBB dropping of the beautiful baked treats, the incredible uni law students, our current crisis line volunteers, and to all of you offering their valuable time, and who extend their supports.

I invite everyone to join us on this journey as we continue to evolve and expand, and if you are interested in volunteering or know someone who is, to support our crisis line or contribute in various other ways, in lending a hand, please reach out to us at community@odwr.nz.

Together, let's cultivate a community where learning, healing, and resilience, flourish.

Ngā mihi.